wince

//wɪns//
B2Frequency Level 11Neutral
Visual representation of wince

Verb

winceInfinitive
wincePresent tense
wincedPast tense
wincedPast participle
wincingPresent participle
wincesThird-person singular
1

To make a slight involuntary grimace or shrinking movement of the body out of pain or distress.

She winced when the doctor gave her the injection.

2

To react with discomfort or embarrassment to something unpleasant or awkward.

She winced when she remembered the embarrassing moment.

Noun

1

A slight grimace or shrinking movement caused by pain or distress.

She gave a wince when the doctor touched her injured arm.