Synonyms for

Wink

Verb / wɪŋk / Another word for wink — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

to close and open one eye quickly to signal something

Synonyms & similar words

newyorkminute flash blink nictitation blinking blinkofaneye winkle nictitate nictation splitsecond twinkling blinkaway eyeblink jiffy twinkle trice nictate instant heartbeat winking blink flutter twinkle signal indicate motion message gesture nod beckon peek glance nudge tip twitch flicker flirt bat nictate

Synonyms by register

Formal

signal beckon indicate

Informal

flash blink twinkle cue

Literary

glimmer sparkle

Antonyms

stare gaze ogle peer scrutinize glare

Common collocations

  • wink at
  • wink of an eye
  • wink of sleep
  • wink and a nod
  • wink out
  • wink back

Word family

noun wink
verb wink

Usage note

A wink is typically a quick, playful gesture. It can sometimes be used figuratively to mean a very short period of time, as in 'in the wink of an eye'.

Example sentences

  1. He gave a wink to his friend across the room.
  2. She always winks at me when she's joking.
  3. The teacher gave a wink to the students to let them know they could take a break.
  4. He winked at the waitress to get her attention.
  5. She winked at him and he knew she was interested.

Quotes

  • A smile is the universal welcome. - Max Eastman
  • A wink is as good as a nod to a blind man. - Proverb
  • A laugh is a smile that bursts. - Mary H. Waldrip

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