Wink: meaning, definitions and examples
😉
wink
[wɪŋk ]
Definitions
facial expression
Close and open one eye quickly as a signal, especially of affection or greeting.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| wink |
This entry appears to be a duplicate of the first 'wink'. Please see the context and examples provided for 'wink' above. |
| blink |
Blink refers to the normal, involuntary action of closing and opening both eyes quickly. It is a neutral term used to describe a natural eye movement.
|
| flutter |
Flutter denotes rapid and light movement, often used to describe eyelashes or eyelids. It can also describe a feeling of nervousness or excitement.
|
| twinkle |
Twinkle is usually used to describe a light quickly turning on and off, but when used with eyes, it suggests a sparkle or gleam, often relating to a happy or mischievous expression.
|
Examples of usage
- He winked at her from across the room.
- She winked to let him know she was joking.
facial expression
A facial expression in which one eye is closed momentarily.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| wink |
Note: 'Wink' is repeated in the list. Refer to the first entry for its usage.
|
| blink |
Blink refers to the quick action of closing and opening both eyes, often done unconsciously or when reacting to bright light or something in the eye.
|
| flutter |
Flutter is used when referring to the rapid, light movement of the eyelids or eyelashes, often in a flirting or delicate manner.
|
| twinkle |
Twinkle is typically used to describe what eyes do when they are bright or sparkling, often due to happiness or amusement.
|
Examples of usage
- She gave him a playful wink.
- He responded with a wink of understanding.
Interesting Facts
Etymology
- The word 'wink' comes from the Old English word 'wincian', meaning 'to close the eyes briefly'.
- In Middle English, it was spelled as 'wink', still meaning the same action.
- The concept of winking can be traced back to language roots in several cultures, with similar terms signifying the playful act.
Cultural Significance
- In many cultures, winking can indicate humor or complicity, suggesting a shared understanding of a joke.
- Winking is recognized as a flirtatious gesture in numerous societies, conveying romantic interest.
- Some cultures use winking to signal agreement or affirmation among friends.
Psychology
- Winking can serve as a non-verbal cue, often conveying trust or intimacy in communication.
- Research suggests that winking may enhance social bonding, making interactions more engaging.
- The act of winking may vary in meaning based on context, showing how nuanced non-verbal communication can be.
Pop Culture
- Icons like James Bond often use winking to embody charm and mystery in films and advertisements.
- Some popular emojis, like the wink emoji 😉, convey a playful or cheeky tone in digital conversations.
- Television shows often use winking characters to add comedic effect or indicate hidden motives.
Science
- Humans typically blink 15-20 times per minute, but a wink intentionally pauses this normal cycle.
- Winking can help lubricate the eye and prevent dryness, indirectly showing its practical purpose.
- Neurological studies indicate that winking can involve coordinated muscle action, integrating both voluntary and involuntary responses.
Translations
Translations of the word "wink" in other languages:
🇵🇹 piscar
🇮🇳 झपकाना
🇩🇪 blinzeln
🇮🇩 kedip
🇺🇦 підморгувати
🇵🇱 mrugnięcie
🇯🇵 ウィンク
🇫🇷 clin d'œil
🇪🇸 guiño
🇹🇷 göz kırpmak
🇰🇷 윙크
🇸🇦 غمزة
🇨🇿 mrknutí
🇸🇰 žmurknutie
🇨🇳 眨眼
🇸🇮 mežikanje
🇮🇸 blik
🇰🇿 жыпылықтау
🇬🇪 თვალის ჩაკვრა
🇦🇿 göz qırpmaq
🇲🇽 guiño