mienlike

Mienlike is an adjective used to describe something that resembles or conveys a person’s mien—that is, their appearance, bearing, or demeanor. It denotes resemblance to a particular look or mood rather than to physical form.

The word is formed from mien plus the suffix -like, and is largely encountered in literary or poetic prose. It is uncommon in everyday speech and may be regarded as archaic or stylistic.

Usage tends to focus on the overall impression created by someone’s expression or stance, rather than on specific features. It can attribute intangible qualities, such as gravity, composure, or suspicion, to appearance.

Examples of usage include: The diplomat’s mienlike calm under pressure reassured the negotiators. Her mienlike seriousness suggested she bore responsibility beyond her years. The room settled into a mienlike stillness as the curtain rose.

See also: mien, demeanor, bearing.