Phrase guide

raise an eyebrow

verb · 2 senses · updated from the 2026-07-25 local source snapshot

Definitions and examples are grouped by meaning. Pronunciation, history, word forms, translations, descendants, synonyms, antonyms, derived terms, and related words appear whenever the source provides them.

Sound

Pronunciation

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No pronunciation record was provided for this word.

1

verb

Meaning 1

To show scepticism, surprise or as a result of being mildly scandalised.

Definition source: English Wiktionary via Wiktextract

No example sentence was provided for this meaning.

Meaning relationships

Synonyms: none provided

Antonyms: none provided

2

verb

Meaning 2

To cause scepticism or surprise.

Definition source: English Wiktionary via Wiktextract

Examples

  • 2019, Jane Gilmore, Fixed It: Violence and the representation of women in the media 'Alleged car thief Kris Kafoops appeared in court today'. Bog standard reporting like this wouldn't raise an eyebrow anywhere.

Meaning relationships

Synonyms: none provided

Antonyms: none provided

History

Etymology

No etymology was provided for this word.

Across languages

Translations

3 source translations are retained for this English entry.

  • German: die Augenbrauen hochziehen — Translations
  • Māori: pewa — Translations
  • Māori: matahī — Translations