Definitions

1. verb

to shrink or contract with pain or sudden movement, often involuntarily

“She flinched at the loud noise.”

2. noun

a sudden, involuntary contraction or movement, especially of the muscles, in response to pain or other stimuli

“The patient’s body displayed several flinches as the doctor examined her.”

3. verb

to shrink or draw back (a part of the body, such as an eye) in response to something unpleasant or threatening

“He flinched at the sight of the snake.”