What does pursed mean?
Pursed describes lips that have been drawn tightly together, often as a sign of uncertainty, disapproval, restraint, or concentration. The expression “pursed lips” is especially familiar, while a “pursed brow” suggests puzzlement or suspicion. As a verb, pursed is the past tense and past participle of purse, meaning to tighten or draw together the lips, often in preparation for whistling or speaking. In dramatic and literary contexts, the gesture can communicate emotion without dialogue: pursed lips may imply doubt or careful consideration, while a pursed expression can convey irritation or controlled displeasure. Although the form is most often used with lips, it can also describe other features of the face or body that have been drawn inward or tightened. The word is common in both British and American English and is especially useful for precise descriptions of facial expression and nonverbal communication.
Drawn tightly together, especially the lips.
"She gave him a long, pursed look of disapproval."
Most commonly used with “lips” or in expressions describing a face, such as “pursed brow.”
Past tense and past participle of purse: to draw or hold the lips tightly together.
"He pursed his lips before answering."
Often describes a preparatory or restrained facial gesture, such as preparing to whistle or speak.
A pursed expression can say more than words: it often signals doubt, disapproval, restraint, or concentrated attention.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does pursed come from?
The modern verb purse developed from the older noun purse and related forms, ultimately tracing to an Old French word for a pouch or bag. The sense of drawing the lips together developed by extension, from the idea of tightening or closing something like a purse. Pursed shares its origin with purse and purser, though the pronunciation of pursed in modern English reflects the standard development of the word rather than a clearly preserved older distinction.
Related word forms
How pursed is actually used
As an adjective, pursed is especially common in the phrase “pursed lips.” As a verb form, it describes the action of tightening the lips, often as a preliminary to whistling, speaking, or expressing controlled emotion.
Easily confused with pursed
Pursed means drawn tightly together, as with the lips, whereas pursued means chased, followed, or sought after.
Pursed refers to tightening or drawing together the lips, while parsed means analyzed or interpreted a text or structure.