TWINKLE Synonyms: 58 Similar and Opposite Words

twinkle 1 of 2

noun

Definition of twinkle

as in minute

a very small space of time in just a twinkle, the shooting star was gone

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

twinkle

2 of 2

verb

ˈtwiŋ-kəl

as in to flash

to shine with light at regular intervals holiday decorations twinkled in the shop windows

Synonyms & Similar Words

as in to gleam

to shoot forth bursts of light stars twinkling on a crisp September night

Synonyms & Similar Words

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Recent Examples of twinkle

Noun

The ever-changing sights and sounds, plus the magical twinkle at night, are all part of what makes this home, inside and out. — Kelly Ryan Kegans, Midwest Living, 16 Aug. 2026 And Georges delivers—come for the smart, international menu and panoramic views over Paris (especially appealing at night, when the Eiffel Tower twinkles with light). — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 11 Aug. 2026

Verb

In my mind, nothing can beat the view of water in every direction, with the twinkling lights of small islands in the distance. — Amanda Eyre Ward, Bon Appetit Magazine, 22 Oct. 2026 The vast auditorium offered a sense of intimacy with floating clouds and twinkling lights like a visitor would still see at the Music Box Theatre in Lakeview today. — Adam Harrington, CBS News, 16 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for twinkle

Recent Examples of Synonyms for twinkle

Noun

In laboratory tests, a one-minute electrical stimulation using a standard 9-volt battery killed more than 80% of bacterial cells within three hours, according to the researchers.

— Neetika Walter, Interesting Engineering, 12 Nov. 2026
For an easier first taste of the mountain, enjoy the 35-minute walk to Baoguo Temple, then continue about a half mile along the stone trail to Fuhu Temple.

— Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 12 Nov. 2026

Definition of minute

Verb

Underneath the question on the screen, three dots appear—similar to the ones messaging apps use to signal that your conversation partner is composing a response—and flash with anticipation.

— Literary Hub, Literary Hub, 6 Nov. 2026
Mitchell was particularly impressive as a distributor while Crowe and Bryant flashed their elite scoring ability.

— PJ Green November 3, Kansas City Star, 4 Nov. 2026

Definition of flash

Verb

Spread out across expansive work stations that resemble gleaming kitchen cubicles, chefs spend their days whipping up meals from soup to nuts, a laboratory of sorts to create appetizing and easy dinners to make at home.

— Robert Channick, Chicago Tribune, 2 Nov. 2026
Spotting the lights less than a mile from his home, Wittlin turned onto a side street and pulled his gleaming red Pontiac Firebird over.

— Graham Hurley, CNN Money, 1 Nov. 2026

Definition of gleam

Noun

During stress, hormones like adrenaline narrow your blood vessels narrow and speed up your heartbeat.

— MD Published, Verywell Health, 10 Nov. 2026
The brothers shared the recording with Italian cardiologist Achille Dogliotti, whose examination reportedly led him to conclude that the sounds were consistent with strained breathing and an elevated human heartbeat.

— Micah Hanks, Space.com, 10 Nov. 2026

Definition of heartbeat

Verb

Nothing can up the ambiance on a front porch quite like flickering candlelight, and these decorative metal lanterns will keep it safe and contained, all while adding an elegant touch to any decor style.

— Kate Boswell, Southern Living, 3 Nov. 2026
Flames flickered around chunks of pavement lining the crater as shocked residents looked on in horror.

— David Fischer, Chicago Tribune, 2 Nov. 2026

Definition of flicker

Verb

While the shoes featured the sparkling detail on the toe strap, Mowry’s dress was the true center of attention.

— Karla Rodriguez, Footwear News, 10 Nov. 2026
Publicist and artist Sergio Farias wore a dripping ruby headpiece, sparkling silver suit and fluffy scarlet train.

— Laura Zornosa, Los Angeles Times, 8 Nov. 2026

Definition of sparkle

Noun

Segura's first goal of the season came with assists from defender Ryan Porteous — the second of his career — and Leo Walta — his first in his fifth league appearance.

— CBS News, CBS News, 8 Nov. 2026
Bears kicker Yousef Obeid had four field goals in the game, including a 37-yarder that tied it at 20 with 32 seconds left.

— The Kansas City Star, Kansas City Star, 8 Nov. 2026

Definition of second

Verb

Outside, the rocky surfaces of the gorge’s walls alternate between light and shadow while the river glints in the midday sun.

— Sarah Kuta, Condé Nast Traveler, 4 Nov. 2026
The long curtains of the banquet room had been thrown open to the morning, and every object—tea service, silver filigree on chopstick handles—glinted like treasure.

— Christopher Solomon, Travel + Leisure, 28 Oct. 2026

Definition of glint

Browse Nearby Words

twining

twinkle

twinkled

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Style

“Twinkle.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/twinkle. Accessed 13 Nov. 2026.

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Synonyms of twinkle

noun

verb

Example Sentences

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