twinkle

¹twin·kle

verb \ˈtwiŋ-kəl\

twin·kledtwin·kling\-k(ə-)liŋ\

Definition of TWINKLE

intransitive verb

1

: to shine with a flickering or sparkling light : scintillate

2

a : to flutter the eyelids b : to appear bright especially with merriment <his eyes twinkled>

3

: to flutter or flit rapidly

transitive verb

1

: to cause to shine with fluctuating light

2

: to flicker or flirt rapidly <twinkled the straight, red-lacquered toes — Glenway Wescott>

— twin·kler \-k(ə-)lər\ noun

Examples of TWINKLE

1. The lights of the city twinkled in the distance.
2. Stars twinkle in the night sky.
3. Her eyes twinkled with excitement.

Origin of TWINKLE

Middle English, from Old English twinclian; akin to Middle High German zwinken to blink

First Known Use: before 12th century

Related to TWINKLE

Synonyms: flash, blink, wink

Related Words: coruscate, flare, flicker, glance, glimmer, glint, glisten, glister, glitter, scintillate, shimmer, spangle, spark, sparkle

see all synonyms and antonyms

[+]more[-]hide

Rhymes with TWINKLE

crinkle, inkle, sprinkle, tinkle, winkle, wrinkle