26984 words

winces

3 definitions • 5 examples
1
to show pain or embarrassment suddenly and for a short time in the face, often moving the head back at the same time:

Examples:

Did I hurt you? I thought I saw you wince.
It makes me wince even thinking about eye operations.
2
the act of showing pain or embarrassment suddenly and for a short time in the face, often moving the head back at the same time:

Examples:

She gave a wince as the nurse put the needle in.
It's impossible not to feel a wince of empathy for someone who gets a kick in the face.
3
to tighten the muscles of the face briefly and suddenly in a show of pain, worry, or embarrassment:

Examples:

She cut her finger, but didn’t even wince.

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