Flinch Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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flinch
[flɪn(t)ʃ ]
Definitions
showing fear or pain
To flinch means to make a sudden, small movement because of pain or fear.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| flinch |
Used when someone makes a quick, nervous movement in reaction to pain or fear.
|
| wince |
Used when someone makes a slight grimace or shrinking movement due to pain or stress.
|
| cringe |
Used when someone feels embarrassed or disgusted, often due to someone else's actions or words.
|
| start |
Used when someone makes a sudden movement due to a surprise or unexpected event.
|
Examples of usage
- He didn't even flinch when the ball hit him in the face.
- She flinched at the loud noise.
- Don't flinch, it's just a small insect.
- The soldier didn't flinch in the face of danger.
- I flinched as the cold water touched my skin.
reflex action
A flinch can also refer to a sudden, involuntary movement in response to pain or fear.
Synonyms
convulsion, jerk, twitch.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| flinch |
Use in situations where someone quickly and slightly moves back or away due to pain or fear.
|
| twitch |
Use for describing small, involuntary muscle movement or spasm, often happening repeatedly and for short durations.
|
| jerk |
Use to describe a quick, sharp, sudden movement, often in response to a reflex or an unexpected stimulus.
|
| convulsion |
Use when referring to a sudden, violent, and involuntary contraction of muscles, typically caused by a medical condition.
|
Examples of usage
- His flinch was noticeable when the door slammed.
- She couldn't control her flinch when the needle touched her skin.
- The flinch was so quick that no one noticed it.
- The dog's flinch showed how scared he was.
- I felt a flinch in my leg when I stubbed my toe.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Origin of 'flinch'
The word 'flinch' originated from the Middle English word 'flenchen' which meant to fling or to dash. Over time, the meaning evolved to include the sudden movement associated with fear or pain. The word has been used in English literature for centuries to describe reactions to stimuli. Today, 'flinch' is commonly used in both spoken and written English to depict a quick, involuntary reaction to a perceived threat or discomfort.
See also: unflinching.