Body Language Mouth (Complete Guide)

The mouth is one of the most important parts of our bodies when it comes to body language.

It can reveal so much about a person without them having to say a word at all, from their thoughts and feelings to what they are thinking or planning.

The mouth is often used to express emotions, take in food, breath, and speak. Mouth gestures are often associated with how well the person is communicating.

Mouths can be closed or open in various ways to show different types of emotions. Some people may cover their mouth with their hands when feeling nervous or shy. There are many different meanings when it comes to reading the mouth within body language.

This second place we look when gathering information about a person when analyzing them after the eyes.

We will now take a look at what the facial expressions of the mouth mean. The first non-verbal gesture of the mouth we will look at is the hand over the mouth.

You can also check out what the hand means over the mouth here.

Nonverbal Communication Of The Mouth

Smile

A universal sign of happiness and friendliness, a genuine smile is a powerful way to communicate warmth and approachability. The ‘Duchenne smile,’ characterized by the crinkling of the eyes, is considered the most authentic and engaging type of smile.

Lip-biting

This expression can be a sign of anxiety, stress, or even excitement. People often bite their lips unconsciously when they are deep in thought or nervous about a situation.

Pursed lips

Pursed lips can signify disapproval, frustration, or anger. This facial expression is often associated with holding back negative thoughts or emotions.

Lip-licking

Licking the lips can indicate anticipation, desire, or nervousness. This action can also be a result of dry lips or a subconscious self-soothing mechanism.

Mouth-covering

Covering the mouth with a hand can be a sign of surprise, embarrassment, or an attempt to suppress laughter or other emotions. It can also indicate an effort to hide dishonesty or deceit.

Tongue-showing

Sticking the tongue out can be a playful gesture, a sign of defiance, or an expression of distaste. The meaning of this action varies greatly depending on the context and the person involved.

Tight-lipped smile

This type of smile, with the lips pressed together, can indicate politeness, insincerity, or an attempt to conceal one’s true feelings.

Lip-pouting

Pouting can be a sign of disappointment, sadness, or an appeal for attention and sympathy.

Yawning

Although commonly associated with boredom or fatigue, yawning can also be a sign of stress, nervousness, or a need for more oxygen. It is important to consider the context in which the yawn occurs to better understand its meaning.

Grinding teeth

Teeth grinding, or bruxism, can be a sign of stress, anxiety, or frustration. This behavior often occurs subconsciously, and it can lead to various dental issues if not addressed.

Smirking

A smirk is a one-sided, often sarcastic or mocking smile. It can convey feelings of superiority, amusement, or disdain, depending on the context and the relationship between the individuals involved.

Lip-trembling

Trembling lips can indicate strong emotions such as sadness, fear, or even extreme anger. This involuntary response is usually a sign that the person is struggling to contain their emotions.

Whistling

Whistling can be a means of expressing contentment, passing the time, or attracting attention. The meaning behind the act of whistling may vary depending on the tune and the situation.

Speaking with clenched teeth

Talking through clenched teeth is often a sign of anger or frustration. This expression conveys that the person is trying to maintain control over their emotions but is reaching their breaking point.

Lip-rolling

Rolling the lips inward can signify deep thought, concentration, or uncertainty. People often do this subconsciously when they are trying to make a decision or pondering a complex issue.

Chewing on objects

Chewing on objects such as pens, pencils, or fingernails can be a sign of nervousness, stress, or boredom. This behavior is often a subconscious way of self-soothing or releasing pent-up energy.

Inflating cheeks

Inflating the cheeks can indicate surprise, disbelief, or a need to take a deep breath before expressing strong emotions. It can also be a playful gesture, depending on the context.

Lip-syncing

Lip-syncing to a song or pretending to speak without producing sound can be an expression of playfulness, enjoyment, or simply a means of practicing a speech or performance.

Mumbling

Speaking in a low, unclear tone can signify a lack of confidence, shyness, or uncertainty. Mumbling may also be a sign of disinterest or an attempt to avoid drawing attention to oneself.

Gaping mouth

A gaping mouth, with the jaw hanging open, can indicate shock, surprise, or disbelief. This expression is often seen when someone is caught off-guard or confronted with unexpected news.

Lip-gloss application

Applying lip-gloss or lipstick can be a self-soothing gesture or a way to boost confidence and enhance one’s appearance. In some cases, it can also be a sign of flirtation or an attempt to draw attention to the lips.

Lip-curling

Curling the upper lip, or a sneer, can signify contempt, disgust, or disdain. This expression is often associated with negative feelings toward a person or a situation.

Mouth-breathing

Breathing through the mouth, rather than the nose, can indicate physical discomfort, congestion, or anxiety. In some cases, it may simply be a personal habit.

Blowing a kiss

Blowing a kiss is a playful and affectionate gesture, often used to express love, admiration, or flirtation.

Sipping

The act of sipping a beverage can signify relaxation, enjoyment, or a need for hydration. It can also be a way to pause during a conversation, allowing for reflection or a moment to collect one’s thoughts.

Chewing gum

Chewing gum can indicate a desire to freshen one’s breath, relieve stress, or simply pass the time. In some situations, it can be seen as a sign of casualness or nonchalance.

Smacking lips

Smacking the lips can be a sign of satisfaction, enjoyment, or anticipation of something pleasant, such as food or a sweet treat. It can also be interpreted as a sign of impatience or restlessness.

Covering the mouth while speaking

Covering the mouth with a hand while speaking can indicate a lack of confidence, shyness, or a desire to hide one’s true feelings. It can also be a way to muffle one’s voice when trying to communicate discreetly.

Humming

Humming a tune can express happiness, contentment, or a means of self-soothing. It can also be a way to fill silence or convey a relaxed, carefree attitude.

Rapid swallowing

Rapid swallowing can be a sign of nervousness, anxiety, or discomfort. This behavior can also be the result of dry mouth or a physical reaction to stress.

Frequent throat-clearing

Clearing the throat frequently can indicate nervousness, discomfort, or a need to draw attention to oneself. In some cases, it may be a sign of a physical issue, such as a cold or allergies.

Holding breath – Holding one’s breath can be a sign of anxiety, fear, or anticipation. This behavior may occur unconsciously during tense or high-stress situations.

Body Language Mouth Open Really Mean.

The meaning behind an open mouth gesture varies for each person but the message they send out is easily interpreted by others. When we hear the term “jaw-dropping or my mouth hit the floor” we think of the mouth being opened.

The mouth opening is often an expression of shock or disbelief. It could also be a way of relieving tension in the jaw.

It’s important to keep the context in mind when it comes to any non-verbal analysis. What did they see, what did they say and who was around them at the time of mouth opening?

What is body language?

Body language is a nonverbal form of communication in which physical behaviors, such as facial expressions, gestures, and posture, are used to convey messages. It can be used to communicate emotions, intentions, and feelings. It is also a form of communication that can be used to influence the behavior of others.

Facial expression and how are they linked to the body language of the mouth?

The facial expressions of a person can be linked to the body language of their mouth. For example, if someone is smiling, it may mean that they are happy or amused they will use the eyes and the mouth to show a true smile. On the other hand, if someone is frowning and with pursed lips, it may mean that they are unhappy or angry. So you can see how important the mouth is so important when reading facial expressions.

Body Language Mouth Open Really Mean?

The meaning behind an open mouth gesture varies for each person but the message they send out is easily interpreted by others. When we hear the term “jaw-dropping or my mouth hit the floor” we think of the mouth being opened and wide eyes.

The mouth opening is often an expression of shock or disbelief. It could also be a way of relieving tension in the jaw.

It’s important to keep the context in mind when it comes to any non-verbal analysis. What did they see, what did they say and who was around them at the time of mouth opening?

Body Language Mouth Closed Really Mean?

Many people think that when someone has their mouth closed it means they are angry or not interested in talking anymore.

This isn’t always true though because people’s mouths may be closed for many other reasons like eating food or yawning.

We usually see this nonverbal cue of the mouth closed when people are relaxed or suppressing some kind of information. The context around this cue is vital to understanding what is really going on with that person and why they are keeping their mouths closed.

Understanding Breathing Cues (They Mean More Then You Know)

Exhaling.

Exhaling can have a few different meanings within a body language context. For example, when we exhale, we may sigh or puff our cheeks.

When we exhale with a loud and short breath, it usually indicates stress or frustration. We typically see this nonverbal cue when someone has given up or has received some bad news.

Exhaling with the cheeks puffed out and pursed lips are another indication that someone is under stress or has just relaxed from a stressful situation.

You may see relief on their face and the eyes may soften after this happens.

Inhaling.

One example of inhaling is when you greet someone or when they join the table. This may mean that you are happy to see them.

Another example is the affirmation inhaling, you will often see this when someone is about to agree with you and they will take a short intake of breath before saying yes.

Holding the breath.

Holding one’s breath for a prolonged period of time is usually a sign of fight or flight. If you see someone holding their breath in a conversation or situation, they are usually frightened or apprehensive about something.

Body Language Of The Tongue (All You Need To Know)

Tongue Corner Mouth Really Mean.

From a body language point of view, the tongue is pushed in the corner of the mouth and held their means that the person is feeling stressed out.

There are, however, a few other meanings for the tongue to be held in the corner of the mouth. It could be the person is hiding information, and it is often a submissive or playful gesture.

Tongue Jutting Between Teeth.

When you see the tongue sticking out between the teeth, it tends to mean that the person thinks they have gotten away with something or they think they have been found out.

Remember context is important when studying any kind of nonverbal behavior.

Tongue Out.

Sticking the tongue out of the mouth can mean the person doesn’t like you or is being cheeky towards you, think kids.

It can also be a sign of concern that you usually see the tongue sticking out of the mouth on one side while a task is being performed.

Licking The Teeth.

Licking one’s teeth usually means that person is feeling under stress or in a bad situation. It’s a way of relieving oneself or often called a coping mechanism in body language.

Body language mouth movement really mean

In many cultures, mouth movement has been considered to have an impact on one’s mood and personality.

For example, an upward mouth movement is considered to be a sign of happiness whereas a downward one signifies sadness (think smile)

You will also see the jaw move from side to side this could mean they are feeling some kind of pressure or stress.

What Does Dry Mouth Mean In Body Language?

A dry mouth is a condition in which the body doesn’t produce enough saliva. This can be caused by a number of things, such as nervousness, stress, and anxiety.

You can usually hear this when people are stressed, as their mouth becomes tacky due to the build-up of protein. I have often seen this in TED Talks, check some out see if you can hear what I’m talking about.

If you ever have a dry mouth when you’re talking, remember to wipe your mouth often and drink water.

Mouth Body Language Attraction?

It is important to remember that body language is not 100% reliable when trying to determine if someone likes you.

Women often use their mouths to display attraction by licking their lips or teeth, but there are no absolutes to this. We have to read the context surrounding the body language cues.

Covering Mouth With Shirt Body Language?

When we cover our mouth, we are trying to either stop ourselves from saying something or we are trying to keep something in. We may also do it when we’ve said something that has offended someone and then want to take it back.

It can also be a sign of insecurity or withholding information.

Have you ever seen someone yawn, and you yawn back?

Have you ever seen someone yawn and then yawn back at them? It’s like a reflex! But what does it mean?

When someone yawns, they are usually tired or bored. But when you yawn back at them, it’s a sign that you are also tired or bored. It’s like your brain is telling you to take a break too!

Can body language be misleading?

Body language can be misleading because it is a form of nonverbal communication. This means that the meaning of body language can be interpreted in different ways by different people. For example, a facial expression or gesture might have a different meaning in one culture than it does in another culture. Similarly, body movements can also convey different meanings depending on the context in which they are used.

Final Thoughts

As you can tell there are many different meanings to body language of the mouth. Body language often has its roots in human evolution, with the purpose of conveying emotion, thoughts, and intentions.

I hope you have enjoyed reading and learning about the mouth and what part it has to play in understanding other people’s body language.