To pout means to push out your lips and look unhappy, usually to show disappointment or displeasure. When someone pouts, their bottom lip sticks out and their face takes on a sulky expression, like they're trying to show everyone just how upset they feel without actually saying anything.

Young children often pout when they don't get their way: a toddler might pout dramatically when told it's bedtime, or a kindergartner might pout after losing a game. But people of any age can pout. A teammate might pout on the bench after being substituted out of a soccer match, or someone might pout when their suggestion gets outvoted during a group project.

The word usually carries a slightly negative feeling, suggesting that someone is being a bit theatrical or self-pitying about their disappointment. When people say “don't pout” or “stop pouting,” they're usually encouraging someone to handle disappointment more gracefully. A pout can sometimes get sympathy or attention, but it can also make others less interested in helping, especially when the problem isn't actually that serious.