Flinch – Meaning, Definition, Synonyms and Antonyms
Flinch is used as a verb in English. It means to suddenly draw back or recoil, usually because of fear, pain, surprise, or discomfort.
Meaning:
The term flinch refers to the act of drawing back, jerking away, or showing reluctance due to fear, unease, or the expectation of something unpleasant.
Definition:
To flinch can be physical, such as pulling away from a perceived threat, or emotional, such as hesitating when faced with criticism, bad news, or an uncomfortable situation. In everyday speech, people also use it for smaller, instinctive reactions—like wincing at a sudden sound or pausing before saying something difficult.
Example Sentences:
- He didn’t flinch when the punch came toward him.
- She tried not to flinch at the loud noise during the meeting.
- The dog flinched when the door slammed shut.
- I flinched when I saw the doctor’s note, because it looked serious.
- Even experienced players sometimes flinch when the ball is unexpectedly thrown near them.
Flinch Synonyms:
- Recoil
- Wince
- Shudder
- Cower
- Shrink
- Startle
- Recede
- Back off
- Pull away
Flinch Antonyms:
- Confront
- Endure
- Resist
- Stand firm
- Face
- Hold steady
- Bear
- Meet
- Approach
If you’re reviewing related vocabulary, you may also like wince, which describes a similar reaction often linked to pain or discomfort.
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