Definition of "fling" in English

noun

1. An act of throwing, often violently.

2. An act of moving the limbs or body with violent movements, especially in a dance.

   • the fling of a horse

3. An act or period of unrestrained indulgence.

4. A short romantic, oftentimes sexual, relationship.

   • a summer fling
   • I had a fling with a girl I met on holiday.

5. (figuratively) An attempt, a try.

   • give it a fling

6. (obsolete) A severe or contemptuous remark; an expression of sarcastic scorn; a gibe or taunt.

7. (dance) A lively Scottish country dance.

   • the Highland fling

8. (obsolete) A trifling matter; an object of contempt.

   • ante 1800, old proverb England were but a fling / Save for the crooked stick and the grey goose wing.

verb

1. (transitive) To throw with violence or quick movement; to hurl.

2. (intransitive, somewhat literary) To move (oneself) abruptly or violently; to rush or dash.

3. (intransitive, archaic) To throw; to wince; to flounce.

4. (intransitive, somewhat literary) To utter abusive language; to sneer.

   • The scold began to flout and fling.