to believe that something is wrong and that you should not do it
Many people tend to frown on smoking nowadays.
usually passive
Divorce is still frowned upon in many countries.
phrasefrown upon frown on/upon!Frown upon is more formal than frown on, and is mostly used in writing. frown on/upon sb/sth usually passive if something is frowned on, people disapprove of it: In those days divorce was still frowned on, and people were expected to stay married for the rest of their lives.As children we were often smacked or beaten - something that I'm sure would be frowned on today.■ SIMILAR TO: disapprove of
frown upon
To show one's disapproval of something. I just know my mother frowns upon my decision to go to a state school.Please stop frowning upon my choice and support me!