Pout

Pout

A pout is a facial expression characterized by pushing out the lips, often as a sign of displeasure, sulkiness, or in some cases, to appear more attractive. This expression is commonly associated with children but can be seen in people of all ages.

Characteristics

The pout involves the contraction of the muscles around the mouth, particularly the orbicularis oris muscle, which encircles the mouth. This action pushes the lips outward and can be accompanied by other facial expressions such as frowning or narrowing of the eyes.

Psychological Aspects

Pouting is often a non-verbal form of communication. It can indicate a range of emotions from mild annoyance to significant distress. In some social contexts, pouting can be used to elicit sympathy or to manipulate others into providing comfort or attention.

Cultural Significance

In various cultures, pouting can have different connotations. In Western cultures, it is often associated with childish behavior or a way to appear more attractive in photographs, commonly referred to as the "duck face." In other cultures, the expression might be interpreted differently based on social norms and values.

Related Facial Expressions

• Smile
• Frown
• Grimace
• Scowl

See Also

• Body language
• Nonverbal communication
• Facial expression
• Emotion

External Links

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