A tightening of the muscles along the jaw, visible as a ridge near the cheek.
Receiving criticism in public a person keeps quiet while the jaw muscles flex and harden. The silence looks calm, yet the working jaw reveals the effort it is taking to hold a reaction in.
Clenching often signals contained anger, tension or the effort to hold back a reaction. A tight jaw during a composed reply hints at a storm being held just beneath the surface.
Concentration and physical strain produce clenching too, so weigh it in context. Someone lifting something heavy or focusing hard may clench without any anger involved.
A reddening of the face caused by a rush of blood, usually beyond conscious control.
ExploreA widening of the pupils that can accompany interest, attraction or heightened arousal.
ExploreRed patches that appear on the neck and chest under stress or strong emotion.
Explore