Meaning & Definition of word "Flinch"
to
Flinch
/flɪnʧ/
noun:
- 1. A quick or nervous movement caused by fear or pain.
- Example: His flinch was noticeable when he heard the gunshot.
- 2. A reaction of fear or apprehension.
- Example: There was a noticeable flinch in her voice when he mentioned the accident.
verb:
- 1. To make a quick, nervous movement as an instinctive reaction to fear or pain.
- Example: She did not flinch when the doctor gave her the injection.
- 2. To shrink back or withdraw from something unpleasant.
- Example: He flinched at the thought of speaking in front of a large crowd.
- 3. To show a slight instinctive reaction to something startling or unpleasant.
- Example: The loud crash made everyone flinch.
Etymology
Middle English 'flinchein' from Old French 'flincher', which means to recoil or shrink.
Common Phrases and Expressions
not flinch an inch:
to remain steadfast and not back down.
flinch at:
to show fear or hesitation towards something.
Related Words
wince:
to make a slight involuntary grimace or shrinking movement out of pain or distress.
recoil:
to spring back; to move back suddenly, as in shock or fear.
Slang Meanings of flinch
Meaning: to back down from a challenge or difficult situation.
Example Sentence: Don't flinch now, stand tall!
Meaning: to avoid confrontation.
Example Sentence: He flinched when it was time to discuss the issue.