blink
12 synonyms for blink, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Verb — To close and open the eyes quickly.
Synonyms
Everyday swaps
Common words most readers know — safe in any writing.
Less common
Still standard English, but they carry more weight.
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
Synonyms by Meaning
1. verb
To close and open the eyes quickly.
“She blinked in the bright sunlight.”
How to use blink
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
blink an eye
blink back tears
blink first
in the blink of an eye
Etymology
From Old English roots related to *blincan, ultimately tied to a Proto-Germanic word meaning "to shine, gleam" — the same family as the word blank.
Full origin of blink →Frequently asked questions
What does “blink” mean?
The word “blink” means to close and open the eyes quickly. In plain terms, a quick close-and-open of the eyes, or anything flashing on and off; figuratively, backing down first in a standoff.
How do you pronounce “blink”?
“Blink” is pronounced blihngk (/blɪŋk/ in IPA).
How do you use “blink” in a sentence?
Here is “blink” used in a sentence: “She blinked in the bright sunlight.”
What is another word for “blink”?
Words with a similar meaning to “blink” include nictitate.
What part of speech is “blink”?
Depending on how it is used, “blink” can be a verb and a noun.
Where does the word “blink” come from?
The word “blink” comes from Old English. From Old English roots related to *blincan, ultimately tied to a Proto-Germanic word meaning "to shine, gleam" — the same family as the word blank.
Is “blink” a common word?
“Blink” is an uncommon word in modern English, usually learned at around the B2 level.
How many meanings does “blink” have?
“Blink” has 4 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: to close and open the eyes quickly.
What is the difference between blink and wink?
Blink means closing and opening both eyes quickly, often involuntarily, while wink means deliberately closing just one eye, usually as a signal or gesture. Blinking is largely automatic; winking is intentional.
What does it mean to say someone blinked first in a standoff?
To blink first means to be the one who backs down or shows hesitation in a tense confrontation or negotiation. It draws on the idea that blinking is a small, telling sign of weakness or nerves.
What does it mean when a light blinks?
A light that blinks flashes on and off, typically at regular intervals, such as a warning light or a cursor. This sense extends the eye-closing meaning to any rapid, repeated appearance and disappearance of light.
