Blench: meaning, definitions and examples

The word 'blench' comes from the Old English term 'blencan,' which meant 'to deceive or to make obscure.' The meaning has evolved over time to capture the idea of flinching or recoiling in fear or surprise. In Middle English, the term took on the form 'blenchen' and began to be associated more closely with the physical reaction of withdrawing or shrinking back. While now less commonly used, it can still be found in historical texts and modern literature to convey a strong emotional response. The root of the word points to a long history of human expression in the face of fear, suggesting a natural instinct to protect oneself from perceived threats.

Ranking #38,834, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.

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• 38831 youthfully
• 38832 trailblazer
• 38833 impenetrably
• 38834 blench
• 38835 headhunter
• 38836 ravelled
• 38837 honcho
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