flinch
//flɪntʃ//
Verb
flinchInfinitive
flinchPresent tense
flinchedPast tense
flinchedPast participle
flinchingPresent participle
flinchesThird-person singular
1
To make a quick, nervous movement away from something painful, dangerous, or frightening.
She flinched when the doctor touched her injured arm.
2
To avoid doing something difficult or unpleasant because of fear or discomfort.
She didn't flinch from telling him the truth.
Noun
1
A quick, nervous movement made in response to pain, fear, or surprise.
She gave a slight flinch when the doctor touched her injured arm.