winces

3 definitions • 5 examples

to show pain or embarrassment suddenly and for a short time in the face, often moving the head back at the same time:

Did I hurt you? I thought I saw you wince.

It makes me wince even thinking about eye operations.

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:

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.

to tighten the muscles of the face briefly and suddenly in a show of pain, worry, or embarrassment:

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