# blinking

/ˈbɫɪŋkɪŋ/ (US) · /blˈɪŋkɪŋ/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/blinking
Updated: 2026-05-06

## Definition

a mild way to show you are annoyed or surprised. It is a polite alternative to using a swear word.

For teachers: used to express mild annoyance, frustration, or emphasis. Often functions as a euphemism for more offensive expletives and is typically used attributively.

## Examples

- I can't get this blinking computer to start.
- The neighbor's blinking dog has been barking at the fence for three hours straight.
- He spent the entire afternoon trying to fix that blinking leak in the kitchen, only to realize he didn't have the right size of wrench.

## Usage notes

- Used as an intensifier before a noun or another adjective; informal and British in flavor.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.