flirt

[flɜːt]

[flɝt]

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An flirt is someone who shows romantic interest in another person without actually dating them. It's like sending a playful wink or whispering something sweet to get their attention.

When people talk about flirting, they usually mean gentle teasing, playful banter, and subtle hints of affection. Flirting can be done through body language, like leaning in close or playing with hair, or through words, like making compliments or telling jokes. Some people use flirting as a way to build confidence before asking someone out on a date, while others might just enjoy the excitement of knowing they're being admired from afar. In either case, flirting is usually lighthearted and meant to be fun, rather than serious.

How common is "flirt"?

Word flirt is considered uncommon in modern English.
It has a balanced usage among all categories: speech, fiction, newspapers and academic texts.

Definitions

noun

A sudden jerk; a quick throw or cast; a darting motion
Someone who flirts a lot or enjoys flirting; a flirtatious person.
An act of flirting.

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verb

To throw (something) with a jerk or sudden movement; to fling.
Example: They flirt water in each other's faces.
To jeer at; to mock.
To dart about; to move with quick, jerky motions.
To blurt out.
To play at courtship; to talk with teasing affection, to insinuate sexual attraction in a playful (especially conversational) way.
To experiment, or tentatively engage, with; to become involved in passing with.