Meaning & Definition of word "Flicker"

Flicker

/ˈflɪkər/

noun:

  • 1. a brief or sudden light or movement.
    • Example: The flicker of the fire caught her attention.
  • 2. a momentary sensation or perception.
    • Example: She saw a flicker of doubt in his eyes.

verb:

  • 1. to burn or shine in an irregular or wavering manner.
    • Example: The candle began to flicker in the drafty room.
  • 2. to appear or pass quickly or briefly.
    • Example: A memory of her childhood flickered through his mind.

Etymology

Middle English, probably of imitative origin.

Common Phrases and Expressions

flicker of hope:

a small sign of optimism in a difficult situation.

flicker by:

to pass quickly and unnoticed.

flicker out:

to stop burning or shining; to cease.

flicker in and out:

to appear and disappear quickly.

Related Words

flickering:

the act of shining or moving irregularly.

flame:

the visible, gaseous part of a fire.

glow:

to emit a steady light.

spark:

a small particle of a burning substance.

Slang Meanings of flicker

Meaning: To tease or flirt.

Example Sentence: She was just flickering with him at the party.

Meaning: To leave quickly.

Example Sentence: I need to flicker out of this conversation.