flirtation
/flirtation/
Definition
Noun: 1. Playful behavior intended to arouse sexual interest: Light, casual, and non-serious behavior, often involving conversation, teasing, or body language, that suggests romantic or sexual interest without a serious commitment. 2. A brief or casual interest or involvement: A superficial or temporary engagement with an idea, activity, or style, without deep commitment.
Examples of Usage
- Noun (Meaning 1):
- Their friendly conversation at the party was just a harmless flirtation.
- She saw his compliments as a form of playful flirtation.
- Noun (Meaning 2):
- His flirtation with jazz music in college didn't last long.
- The company's flirtation with a new marketing strategy was abandoned after six months.
Advanced Usage
- "A flirtation with danger/disaster": A situation where someone engages with something risky in a casual or thrilling way.
- Driving that fast on a wet road was a flirtation with disaster.
Variants and Related Words
- Flirt (verb/noun): To behave as described in the main definition / A person who often flirts.
- He tends to flirt with everyone he meets.
- Flirtatious (adjective): Behaving in a way that shows a playful sexual interest.
- She gave him a flirtatious smile.
Synonyms
- Coquetry: (More formal/literary) The behavior of a coquette; flirtation.
- Dalliance: A casual romantic or sexual relationship, or a brief serious interest in something.
- Teasing: Playfully making fun of or tempting someone.
Related Phrases
- To have a flirtation with (someone/something): To be briefly involved with.
- He had a brief flirtation with acting before becoming a lawyer.
Noun
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playful behavior intended to arouse sexual interest
