pose 1 of 3

verb (1)

ˈpōz How to pronounce pose (audio)
Definition of posenext
as in to suggest
to set before the mind for consideration posed an interesting question for the visiting astronomer

Synonyms & Similar Words

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pose

2 of 3

verb (2)

as in to puzzle
to throw into a state of mental uncertainty utterly posed by the barrage of questions

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

pose

3 of 3

noun

as in show
a display of emotion or behavior that is insincere or intended to deceive my cheerfulness was just a pose, for I was feeling miserable

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Synonym Chooser

How does the noun pose contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of pose are affectation, airs, air, and mannerism. While all these words mean "an adopted way of speaking or behaving," pose implies an attitude deliberately assumed in order to impress others.

her shyness was just a pose

When might affectation be a better fit than pose?

Although the words affectation and pose have much in common, affectation applies to a trick of speech or behavior that strikes the observer as insincere.

the posh accent is an affectation

When could air be used to replace pose?

The words air and pose can be used in similar contexts, but air may suggest natural acquirement through environment or way of life.

a traveler's sophisticated air

In what contexts can airs take the place of pose?

In some situations, the words airs and pose are roughly equivalent. However, airs always implies artificiality and pretentiousness.

snobbish airs

Where would mannerism be a reasonable alternative to pose?

While in some cases nearly identical to pose, mannerism applies to an acquired eccentricity that has become a habit.

gesturing with a cigarette was her most noticeable mannerism

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of pose
Verb
Any significant cuts would not go unnoticed in those communities and could pose serious political consequences. —Nicholas Creel, MSNBC Newsweek, 18 Apr. 2025 That would pose a huge challenge, given Ukraine’s depleted resources and Europe’s dire unreadiness, currently, to bolster the front lines with sufficient military supplies of its own. —Matthew Chance, CNN Money, 18 Apr. 2025
Noun
See if your local gym or recreation center offers yoga classes, or watch a video online to guide you through poses and breathing techniques. —Claire Hoppe Norgaard, Better Homes & Gardens, 2 Apr. 2025 Likewise, the figure’s poses may appear spontaneous, yet they, too, are carefully staged. —María Elena Ortiz, Artforum, 1 Apr. 2025 See All Example Sentences for pose
Recent Examples of Synonyms for pose
  1. show
  2. facade
  3. guise
  4. pretense
  5. act
Noun
  • Most significantly, the wealthy Ratliff family (played on the show by Jason Isaacs, Parker Posey, and co), were recast as President Donald Trump and his family, in a riff on the current tariff situation.
    — Rebecca Cope, Vogue, 14 Apr. 2025
  • Abby’s Motivations – Last night, players saw that the show was saying right away that Abby was a Firefly and was angry at Joel for all his murders at the hospital, decimating the entire organization.
    — Paul Tassi, Forbes.com, 14 Apr. 2025
Definition of show
Noun
  • Fact to know: In collaboration with the Dilworth Historic Commission, the project team used traditional materials and techniques — including the help of a master stonemason with access to original quarries — to ensure consistency with the church’s limestone facade.
    — Heidi Finley, Charlotte Observer, 18 Apr. 2025
  • Its grand facade, looming over the misty abyss of Tequendama Falls, is the kind of place that invites amazement and a little unease.
    — Josh Rivera, USA Today, 18 Apr. 2025
Definition of facade
Noun
  • In fact, in a former guise this was the first company in China to manufacture automobiles.
    — James Morris, Forbes.com, 29 Mar. 2025
  • All would come under the guise of respect for local norms.
    — David Faris, Newsweek, 17 Mar. 2025
Definition of guise
Noun
  • Moore befriended Shakespeare in 2008 under the pretense of writing a book about him, but the project never materialized.
    — Nicole Acosta, People.com, 18 Apr. 2025
  • What To Know According to court documents reviewed by NewsNation, Piccolo is accused of driving up to a woman in Manatee County, stopping his vehicle under the pretense of asking for directions and then exposing himself.
    — Nicholas Creel, MSNBC Newsweek, 18 Apr. 2025
Definition of pretense
Noun
  • The American judicial system looks at individuals, parses guilt and innocence, separates leaders from followers and is at pains to ensure no one gets blamed for the acts of others.
    — The Editorial Board, Chicago Tribune, 14 Apr. 2025
  • In a world wired for hustle, that choice becomes a radical act of self-respect.
    — Mark Travers, Forbes.com, 14 Apr. 2025
Definition of act

Phrases Containing pose

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ports
pose
pose (as)
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Cite this Entry

“Pose.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/pose. Accessed 24 Apr. 2025.

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