wink
C1Informal
Definition
Meaning
To quickly close and open one eye intentionally as a signal, greeting, or hint.
To give a signal or convey a message subtly; to ignore something deliberately; (of a light) to flash on and off quickly.
Linguistics
Semantic Notes
The word suggests brevity, secrecy, and shared understanding between the winker and the recipient.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
In American English, 'wink at' is more commonly used in the metaphorical sense of 'deliberately ignoring' (e.g., wink at a problem). This is slightly less frequent in UK English.
Connotations
In both varieties, a wink often implies conspiracy, flirtation, or a private joke. The British idiom 'tip someone the wink' (to give secret information) is uniquely British.
Frequency
Equally common in both dialects.
Vocabulary
Collocations
Grammar
Valency Patterns
wink (at somebody)wink at something (fig.)wink back (at somebody)wink + adverb (e.g., slyly, knowingly)Vocabulary
Synonyms
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “tip someone the wink”
- “wink at something”
- “in the wink of an eye”
- “as quick as a wink”
Usage
Context Usage
Business
Rare, except in idioms like 'wink at regulations' (to turn a blind eye).
Academic
Very rare; metaphorical use in historical/social analysis.
Everyday
Common for signalling, joking, and flirting.
Technical
Used in computing/tech for 'screen wink' (brief blanking).
Examples
By Part of Speech
noun
British English
- He gave me a conspiratorial wink over the paperwork.
- With a wink and a nod, the deal was done.
American English
- I took her wink as a sign of approval.
- The traffic light gave a final wink before going dark.
verb
British English
- He winked at his mate across the pub to signal the coast was clear.
- The barman winked and said, 'On the house.'
American English
- She winked slyly, letting me know she was joking.
- The city seemed to wink at minor infractions.
Examples
By CEFR Level
- My uncle gave me a wink.
- The little star seems to wink in the sky.
- She winked at her friend to show she understood the joke.
- Don't just wink at the problem; we need to fix it.
- The official was accused of winking at corruption within the department.
- He tipped me the wink about the surprise party.
- The legislation effectively winks at small-scale violations, focusing instead on major offences.
- Their entire communication was conducted through a series of coded winks and gestures.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Imagine a 'k' at the end of WIN, suggesting you've won a secret signal.
Conceptual Metaphor
COMMUNICATION IS LIGHT (a wink is a brief flash of shared understanding).
Watch out
Common Pitfalls
Translation Traps (for Russian speakers)
- Do not confuse with 'моргать' (blink involuntarily). Wink is intentional 'подмигнуть'.
- The idiom 'wink at' (ignore) has no direct equivalent.
Common Mistakes
- Using 'wink' for an involuntary blink.
- Confusing 'wink at' (ignore) with 'look at'.
Practice
Quiz
What does the idiom 'wink at something' mean?
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
A wink is a deliberate, often communicative action with one eye. A blink is an involuntary, rapid closing of both eyes to moisten them.
Yes, lights can be said to wink when they flash on and off briefly, mimicking the action of an eye.
No, while often friendly, a wink can also be conspiratorial, sarcastic, or mocking, depending on context.
No, it's a primarily British idiom meaning to give someone secret information or a warning.