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Flickering Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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flickering

[ˈflɪkərɪŋ ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adjective

light

Shining unsteadily; fluttering.

Synonyms

fluttering, unsteady, wavering.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
flickering

Describes a light that shines unsteadily or varies rapidly in brightness. Often used for candles, screens, or flames.

  • The candle's flickering light created spooky shadows on the walls.
  • I noticed the TV was flickering, so I called the technician.
unsteady

Describes something not firm or stable, often shaky. Can apply to physical objects, movements, or even emotional states.

  • He was walking with unsteady steps after the surgery.
  • Her voice was unsteady as she made the announcement.
fluttering

Often used to describe the quick, light movements of something, such as wings, fabrics, or leaves. It can also describe a sudden feeling of excitement or nervousness.

  • The butterfly was fluttering around the garden.
  • She felt her heart fluttering with excitement before the performance.
wavering

Implies hesitating or being undecided. Can also describe something that shakes, quivers, or fluctuates in intensity.

  • She was wavering between staying at her job and quitting to travel the world.
  • The flag was wavering in the strong wind.

Examples of usage

  • The flickering candle cast eerie shadows on the wall.
  • The flickering streetlight made it hard to see.
Context #2 | Verb

fire

To burn or shine in an unsteady manner.

Synonyms

fluctuate, quiver, waver.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
flickering

Use when describing quick, irregular movements, especially with light or a flame.

  • The candle's flame was flickering in the wind
  • The old neon sign was flickering on and off
waver

Use when describing hesitation or an inability to make a decision, or when something is shaking or moving in an unsteady way.

  • She wavered between going to the party and staying home
  • The flag wavered in the strong wind
quiver

Use when describing a slight, rapid trembling movement, typically because of emotion or cold.

  • She felt her hands quiver as she stood before the audience
  • The leaves began to quiver in the gentle breeze

Examples of usage

  • The fire was flickering in the fireplace.
  • The candle flickered before going out.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Physics

  • Flickering lights can happen due to inconsistent electrical supply, causing rapid changes in brightness.
  • In the case of candles, flickering can signal air movement or changes in temperature around the flame.

Pop Culture

  • Flickering lights are often used in horror films to create suspense and fright.
  • The animation technique of 'flickering' lights can be seen in classic cartoons to exaggerate humor or excitement.

Psychology

  • Flickering lights have been shown to affect mood, with consistent flickering sometimes causing discomfort or anxiety.
  • In contrast, gently flickering lights can create a calming atmosphere, often utilized in relaxation techniques.

Art

  • Artists sometimes use light flickering in installations to evoke change or highlight movement in their work.
  • The play of light and shadow caused by flickering is a technique used in many forms of visual art to convey emotion.

Origin of 'flickering'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'flicker' comes from the Old English 'flicorian,' meaning to flutter or flick.
  • It was first commonly used in the early 19th century to describe the movement of light.

The word 'flickering' originates from the verb 'flicker', which has its roots in Middle English and Old Norse. In Middle English, 'flicker' meant to flutter or wave, while the Old Norse 'flikka' meant to flick or move quickly. Over time, the term evolved to describe an unsteady or wavering motion, especially in relation to light or fire. The concept of flickering has been associated with uncertainty, transience, and impermanence, making it a versatile word in describing various phenomena.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #15,645, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.