Flinched Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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flinched
[flษชnสงt ]
Definition
reaction to surprise
To flinch means to make a quick, sudden movement away from something dangerous or unpleasant. It often denotes a reflexive response to fear or pain.
Synonyms
cringe, recoil, shrink, wince.
Examples of usage
- She flinched at the loud bang.
- He flinched when the ball came towards him.
- The dog flinched at the sound of thunder.
- I flinched when the doctor gave me a shot.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Psychology
- Flinching is a natural reflex; it helps protect us from potential threats or harm.
- The response is often involuntary and can occur during both physical and emotional situations.
Pop Culture
- In movies, characters often flinch in response to loud noises or sudden movements, emphasizing fear or surprise.
- Comics and cartoons frequently depict exaggerated flinching to create humorous effects when characters are startled.
Sports
- Athletes may flinch in various sports when faced with unexpected or fast-moving objects, such as balls or opponents.
- In boxing, a flinch can reveal a fighter's fear or uncertainty and may be exploited by opponents.
Language Usage
- The term is commonly used in both everyday conversation and literature to describe a physical or metaphorical retreat.
- It can also be applied in idiomatic expressions, such as 'not flinching in the face of danger', highlighting bravery.
Origin of 'flinched'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Old English 'flencan', which means to 'to make a sudden movement'.
- It gained usage in Middle English, expanding its meaning to represent startled reactions.
The word 'flinch' originates from the Old English term 'flyncan', which means to startle or to take flight. This term evolved into the Middle English 'flinchen', which maintained the meaning of drawing back or flinching. Over time, 'flinch' has come to encompass both physical and metaphorical forms of recoil or retreat, often in response to unexpected stimuli. It has been used in literature and speech to describe a range of reactions, from physical instincts to emotional responses, illustrating the body's natural reflexes in the face of discomfort or surprise. The term is commonly used in various contexts, including everyday conversation, literature, and sports.