Meaning & Definition of word "Flinch"

Flinch

/flɪnʧ/

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.

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.

●Middle English 'flinchein' from Old French 'flincher', which means to recoil or shrink.

not flinch an inch:

to remain steadfast and not back down.

flinch at:

to show fear or hesitation towards something.

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.

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.