Flirting Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐
flirting
[หflษหtษชล ]
Definitions
romantic interest
Flirting is the act of showing romantic interest in someone in a playful or teasing way. It involves making subtle gestures, compliments, and body language to convey attraction.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| flirting |
When engaging in playfully romantic or sexual behavior to show interest in someone. It's often casual and doesn't necessarily lead to a serious relationship.
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| teasing |
When making playful or mocking remarks to someone, which can be friendly or mean-spirited. It can be romantic if there's a hint of intimacy, but it doesnโt always have to be.
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| courting |
When someone is pursuing a romantic relationship with the intention of finding a long-term partner. It is often more formal and serious than flirting.
|
| wooing |
When someone is trying to gain the love or favor of another, typically in a romantic and often persistent manner. It's usually more intense and genuine than flirting.
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Examples of usage
- She was flirting with him by laughing at all his jokes.
- He flirted with her by complimenting her outfit.
social interaction
Flirting can also refer to a social interaction that is playful and light-hearted, often with a hint of romantic interest. It can occur in various settings, such as parties, work, or online.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| flirting |
This word is used in casual or social situations where someone is showing romantic or playful interest in someone else. It can be lighthearted and is not necessarily serious.
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| banter |
Banter refers to playful and friendly exchange of teasing remarks. It's often used among friends or people who are comfortable with each other and doesn't necessarily have a romantic context.
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| flirtation |
Flirtation is similar to flirting but often implies a series of actions or a state of interaction rather than a single act. It can be used to describe a brief or casual romantic interest.
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| coquetry |
This term is more formal and archaic and refers to behavior of a woman who is trying to attract a man by behaving playfully or flirtatiously. It often has a negative or insincere connotation.
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Examples of usage
- They engaged in some harmless flirting at the office party.
- The online chat was filled with playful flirting.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Psychology
- Flirting often involves body language, such as eye contact and smiling, which are essential in signaling interest.
- Studies show that flirting can boost confidence for both the flirter and the person being flirted with, enhancing social interactions.
- Subtlety in flirting is important; overly direct approaches can be perceived as aggressive or uncomfortable.
Cultural Aspects
- Flirting styles can differ widely between cultures โ what is considered charming in one country may be seen as rude in another.
- In some societies, flirting is a common and playful way to initiate romantic relationships, while in others, it is more reserved and indirect.
- Cultural norms greatly influence how flirting is perceived, with factors like age, gender, and social context playing significant roles.
Pop Culture
- Flirting is a popular theme in movies and television shows, often depicted in romantic comedies where characters humorously navigate romantic tensions.
- Social media has transformed flirting into new practices, such as 'sliding into DMs,' creating modern avenues for romantic interest.
- The portrayal of flirting in music often emphasizes the excitement and emotional highs associated with budding romance.
Evolutionary Biology
- Some researchers argue that flirting helps signal genetic fitness and reproductive capabilities, making it an ancient courtship practice.
- Flirting behaviors may vary between genders, with men often taking a more overt approach while women may employ more subtle tactics.
- From an evolutionary perspective, flirting serves to attract mates while also allowing individuals to navigate social hierarchies.
Origin of 'flirting'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'flirt' originates from the 16th century and is thought to come from the Middle English word 'flirten,' which means to flick or dart.
- In the early 18th century, 'flirting' began to reference playful romantic behavior, likely influenced by courtly love traditions.
- Various languages have their own terms for flirting, showcasing how this behavior is recognized across cultures.
The word 'flirting' originated from the Old French word 'fleureter', meaning 'to touch lightly', which evolved into 'flirter' in the 16th century. It was initially used to describe a sudden jerk or darting movement, before gaining its modern romantic connotations in the 18th century.
See also: flirt, flirtation, flirtatious, flirter, flirty.
Word Frequency Rank
Positioned at #20,491, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.
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- 20488 vocations
- 20489 meandering
- 20490 vibratory
- 20491 flirting
- 20492 symbolical
- 20493 isometric
- 20494 wicker
- ...