Definitions Related words Phrases Mentions Lyrics History Colors (New!) Easter eggs (New!)

Literary notes about flinch (AI summary)

The word "flinch" in literature often serves to illustrate a character’s reaction—or lack thereof—to imminent danger, emotional turmoil, or moral challenge. In some narratives, it highlights steadfast courage, as when a character steadfastly resists fear by not flinching under pressure [1], [2]. In other passages, it marks a subtle yet powerful physical or emotional response, suggesting vulnerability or an involuntary reaction, as seen when a gentle nudge or a mere caress causes one to flinch [3], [4]. At times, the term is employed symbolically to emphasize resolve in the face of daunting tasks or overwhelming forces, shining a light on both heroic determination and the ever-present possibility of human frailty [5], [6]. Through its varied use, "flinch" becomes a potent literary device to convey the nuances of human experience.
  1. He faces men and does not flinch an iota.
    — from The Heart-Cry of Jesus by Byron J. Rees
  2. We shall follow him; and we shall not flinch; even if we peril ourselves that we become like him.
    — from Dracula by Bram Stoker
  3. She stooped and kissed him; but he seemed to flinch beneath her caress.
    — from The Spoilers by Rex Beach
  4. I didn't flinch, though I'm hanged if that bandaged knob of his, and those blinkers, aren't enough to unnerve any one, coming quietly up to you.
    — from The Invisible Man: A Grotesque Romance by H. G. Wells
  5. Only the barbarous and superb woman did not so much as flinch, and stretched tragically her bare arms after us over the sombre and glittering river.
    — from Heart of Darkness by Joseph Conrad
  6. ‘He did not flinch, and went on with heat, “Forget everything, everybody, everybody.” .
    — from Lord Jim by Joseph Conrad

More usage examples

Also see: Google, News, Images, Wikipedia, Reddit, Scrabble


Home   Reverse Dictionary / Thesaurus   Datamuse   Word games   Spruce   Feedback   Dark mode   Random word   Help


Color thesaurus

Use OneLook to find colors for words and words for colors

See an example

Literary notes

Use OneLook to learn how words are used by great writers

See an example

Word games

Try our innovative vocabulary games

Play Now

Read the latest OneLook newsletter issue: Compound Your Joy