Definition of "flinch" in English

noun

1. A reflexive jerking away.

   • My eye doctor hates the flinch I have every time he tries to get near my eyes.

2. (croquet) The slipping of the foot from a ball, when attempting to give a tight croquet.

verb

1. (intransitive) To make a sudden, involuntary movement in response to a (usually negative) stimulus; to cringe; to blench.

2. To dodge (a question), to avoid an unpleasant task or duty

3. (croquet) To let the foot slip from a ball, when attempting to give a tight croquet.

verb

1. Alternative form of flense.