Flick: meaning, definitions and examples

A quick, light movement, often to get rid of something small or to activate or deactivate a switch.

• He flicked the dust off his jacket.
• She flicked the light switch.

A sudden, sharp movement or sound, often associated with breaking or making a sharp noise.

• He snapped his fingers to get attention.
• The twig snapped under her weight.

A light, small touch, often to get attention or make a soft sound, also can refer to gently pressing a device screen.

• He tapped her on the shoulder to get her attention.
• She tapped the screen to open the app.

A gentle, continuous movement, often used to describe a soothing action.

• He stroked the cat gently.
• She stroked his hair to comfort him.

Used to describe a quick, light movement often made to remove or move something small.

• She flicked a speck of dust off her shoulder
• He flicked the light switch on

Describes a sudden, sharp breaking noise or rapid movement, often used for fingers or to indicate anger or urgency.

• He snapped his fingers to get everyone's attention
• She snapped the twig in half

Indicates a fast, sudden motion often accompanied by a whipping sound, with potential negative connotation when describing harsh actions.

• He whipped his head around to see what happened
• She whipped up the mixture with the whisk

Implied when throwing something lightly or casually, often without aiming at a specific target.

• She tossed her keys into her bag
• The boy tossed the ball to his friend