Definition

Adverb: - In a manner that shows a playful or casual romantic or sexual interest; behaving in a way that suggests attraction without serious intent.

Usage

The adverb "flirtatiously" describes how an action is performed. It modifies verbs to indicate that the action is done in a teasing, playful, or coquettish way, often to attract romantic attention.

Examples

• She winked flirtatiously from across the bar.
• He spoke flirtatiously to his date throughout the dinner.
• The character danced flirtatiously around the stage.

Advanced Usage

• Used in narrative description: Often employed in writing to describe a character's behavior or tone.
  • "Are you new in town?" he asked, leaning flirtatiously against the doorframe.

Variants and Related Words

• Flirtatious (adjective): Having a playful romantic or sexual quality.
  • She gave him a flirtatious smile.
• Flirt (verb/noun): (v.) To behave as if attracted; (n.) A person who flirts.
  • He likes to flirt at parties.

Synonyms

• Coquettishly
• Teasingly
• Playfully (in a romantic context)

Antonyms

• Indifferently
• Aloofly
• Uninterestedly

Related Phrases/Idioms

(While not phrasal verbs, these are common collocations.) - To act/bat one's eyelashes flirtatiously: A specific action often done in a flirtatious manner. - She batted her eyelashes flirtatiously, trying to get his attention. - To laugh/smile flirtatiously: Common verbs modified by this adverb. - His date laughed flirtatiously at his joke.

Adverb

1. in a flirtatious manner
   • she smiled coquettishly