Flirty

Part of speech: adjective

Pronunciation: /ˈflɜːti/

Definitions

1. Exhibiting behavior that is playful and suggestive of romantic attraction while engaging in light-hearted interactions with an underlying intent of interest
2. Displaying a teasing manner that hints at romantic feelings while being engaging and playful in social interactions with others
3. Demonstrating a playful demeanor that insinuates romantic interest while interacting in a light and jovial manner with another person

Etymology: "Flirty" is a straightforward formation: the noun "flirt" with the suffix "-y," which turns a noun into an adjective meaning "having the quality of" or "characterized by" the noun. A flirt is someone who behaves playfully toward another person as though romantically interested, so a flirty person or manner is one that shows that kind of light, teasing attention. The suffix itself is very old and common. It descends from an Old English ending "-ig," which was attached to nouns to form adjectives, and it went on to become one of the most productive adjective endings in English, as in "milky," "sandy," and "chatty." Because of this, "flirty" follows a pattern many English speakers use without thinking, and it is a natural fit for a noun like "flirt."

Synonyms: playful, teasing, coquettish

Antonyms: serious, reserved, subdued