flirt

Meanings

1. 1
   verb

   to behave playfully as if attracted to someone, without serious intent

   She liked to flirt with the waiters but never meant anything by it.

Simplified etymology

Flirt apparently arose in the mid-16th century as an expressive formation whose fl- and -irt sounds suggested sudden movement. Its original verbal senses included “give someone a sharp blow,” “move or propel suddenly,” and “sneer at.” As a noun it first meant “joke” or “gibe” and “flighty girl,” with an original notion of cheekiness rather than playfully amorous behavior.

Of uncertain origin, attested from the 16th century, probably imitative, originally meaning 'to flick, jerk, or move suddenly'. The romantic sense developed in the 17th century.

Topics

External links

• Google Images
• Cambridge Dictionary
• Wiktionary