mosoly

Mosoly is the Hungarian noun for 'smile' and refers to a facial expression produced by the upward turning of the corners of the mouth. A smile can involve the cheeks and, in genuine expressions, the eyes. The corresponding verb is mosolyog, meaning 'to smile.'

Description: The smile is a common nonverbal cue in human interaction. People may smile spontaneously or in response to social cues, humor, or polite convention.

Types: A distinction is made between genuine (Duchenne) smiles, which engage the muscles around the eyes (orbicularis oculi) as well as the mouth, and other smiles that may involve only the mouth. The authenticity of a smile is often assessed by observers, though interpretations vary culturally.

Cultural and social role: Smiles signal friendliness and can diffuse tension, facilitate communication, and influence first impressions. Cultural norms shape when and how often a smile is used and how it is interpreted.

Psychology and health: Research indicates smiling can affect mood and social interactions; mirroring and the facial feedback hypothesis suggest that smiling may reinforce positive feelings. Smiles are common in many settings, from informal conversation to public performance.