Flirt Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐
flirt
[flษหt ]
Definitions
romantic interest
To behave as though attracted to or trying to attract someone, but for amusement rather than with serious intentions.
Synonyms
flirt with, tease, toy with.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| flirt |
Used when someone is showing romantic or playful interest in another person, often with the intention of being charming or entertaining.
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| tease |
Used when someone is making fun of or provoking another person in a playful or sometimes unkind way. It doesnโt usually have a romantic connotation. It can be seen as negative if done excessively or hurtfully.
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| toy with |
Refers to treating someone or something lightly or carelessly. It can imply not taking someoneโs feelings or a situation seriously, often seen as negative.
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| flirt with |
Refers to a more casual or less serious interaction where someone is showing romantic or playful interest. It can also mean to consider doing something risky or dangerous.
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Examples of usage
- She enjoys flirting with all the guys at the party.
- He was just flirting with her to make his ex-girlfriend jealous.
romantic interest
A person who habitually flirts.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| flirt |
Use this word when someone is showing romantic or playful interest in another person. It's often lighthearted and casual.
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| coquette |
This word is more formal and old-fashioned. It describes a woman who flirts in a teasing, light-hearted manner. Often carries a sophisticated or elegant undertone.
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| tease |
This word can imply someone intentionally flirts to provoke or challenge others, often without serious intention. It has a slightly negative or mischievous connotation.
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| flirter |
It's a less common variant of 'flirt,' used to describe someone who frequently engages in flirting. It can have a slightly negative or playful connotation.
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Examples of usage
- She's such a flirt, always batting her eyelashes at everyone.
- He's a charming flirt, but never commits to a serious relationship.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Cultural Significance
- In many cultures, playful flirting has long been a ritualized way of determining romantic interest without direct commitment.
- Some traditions use dance as a form of flirtation, showcasing the playful aspect of expressing interest.
- Flirting can vary greatly across cultures, with gestures, body language, and even music playing a role in how it's expressed.
Psychology
- Studies show that flirting can increase attraction, as it often involves light-heartedness and humor.
- Flirtation can trigger the release of dopamine, a chemical that makes people feel happy and excited around others.
- People often use flirting as a way to boost self-esteem, feeling more desirable when engaging playfully with others.
Pop Culture
- Many films and TV shows center around flirtation as a key part of romance, with characters often using witty banter.
- Flirting has become a popular theme in song lyrics, where artists convey the excitement and tension of romantic pursuits.
- In the age of social media, flirting has evolved into a digital art form, manifesting through emojis, gifs, and online banter.
Literature
- Classic novels often depict characters who engage in flirtation to navigate social norms and romantic interests.
- Flirting can serve as a plot device in stories, driving character relationships and conflict.
- Poets frequently explore the nuances of flirtation, capturing the thrill and complexity of human attraction.
Origin of 'flirt'
Main points about word origin
- The word originated from the Old French term 'flirter,' which means to 'play.'
- It was first recorded in the English language during the mid-18th century.
- The root of 'flirt' also connects with the idea of quick, playful movements, similar to the way flirtation involves quick exchanges.
The word 'flirt' originated in the 16th century in the sense 'to flick, move briskly.' It was used to describe the motion of a bird darting from place to place, which later evolved to mean the playful behavior of attracting someone for amusement. Over time, 'flirt' gained its modern romantic connotation, referring to someone who behaves playfully to attract romantic interest without serious intentions.
See also: flirtation, flirtatious, flirter, flirting, flirty.