wince

[wɪns]

wince Definition

• 1. to make a sudden movement of the face and body because of pain or fear
• 2. to show that you are embarrassed or feel ashamed about something

Using wince: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "wince" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

• Example

  He winced in pain as the nurse cleaned his wound.

• Example

  She winced at the thought of having to speak in public.

• Example

  I couldn't help but wince when I heard the terrible news.

wince Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for wince

• flinch
• shudder
• quail
• recoil
• cringe

Antonyms for wince

• brace
• face
• confront

Phrases with wince

• make someone wince

  to cause someone to flinch or cringe in pain or discomfort

  Example

  The sound of nails on a chalkboard always makes me wince.

• wince at the sight of

  to react with a sudden movement of the face and body because of fear, disgust, or disapproval

  Example

  I always wince at the sight of spiders.

• wince with embarrassment

  to show that you are embarrassed or feel ashamed about something

  Example

  She winced with embarrassment when she realized she had forgotten her lines.

Origins of wince

from Old English 'winca', meaning 'to stagger'

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Summary: wince in Brief

The verb 'wince' [wɪns] describes a sudden movement of the face and body due to pain or fear, or to show embarrassment or shame. It is often used figuratively, as in 'She winced at the thought of having to speak in public.' 'Wince' has synonyms like 'flinch' and 'cringe,' and can be used in phrases such as 'make someone wince' and 'wince with embarrassment.'