belächeln
Translation
to smile at condescendingly, to smirk at, to belittle
Examples
Sie belächelte seine naive Idee.
She smirked at his naive idea.
Er wurde für seine Vorschläge belächelt.
He was met with condescending smiles for his suggestions.
Grammar Patterns
to belittle ((sb./sth.)) to smile condescendingly at sb./sth. They belittled his efforts.
Similar Words
Synonyms: verspotten (to mock), herabsehen auf (to look down on); Antonyms: bewundern (to admire), respektieren (to respect)
Etymology
Prefix 'be-' (indicating an action upon something) + 'lächeln' (to smile). It means to direct a smile *at* someone or something, often in a patronizing way.
Memory Tips
Think of a 'lächeln' (smile) that is directed 'at' (be-) someone to show you don't take them seriously.