Flirt: meaning, definitions and examples

Used when someone is showing romantic or playful interest in another person, often with the intention of being charming or entertaining.

• She loves to flirt with her colleagues at work

Used when someone is making fun of or provoking another person in a playful or sometimes unkind way. It doesn’t usually have a romantic connotation. It can be seen as negative if done excessively or hurtfully.

• Don’t tease your sister about her glasses

Refers to treating someone or something lightly or carelessly. It can imply not taking someone’s feelings or a situation seriously, often seen as negative.

• She enjoys toying with people’s emotions

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.

• He often flirts with the idea of quitting his job and traveling the world

Use this word when someone is showing romantic or playful interest in another person. It's often lighthearted and casual.

• He loves to flirt with everyone at the party
• She flirts by giving compliments and maintaining eye contact

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.

• She was known as a coquette, always playfully engaging with her admirers
• The old movies depicted her as a charming coquette

This word can imply someone intentionally flirts to provoke or challenge others, often without serious intention. It has a slightly negative or mischievous connotation.

• Don’t be a tease; you know you like him
• She's just teasing him to get a reaction

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.

• He's such a flirter, always chatting up new people
• Everyone knows she's a flirter, constantly laughing and joking