# flicker

/ˈfɫɪkɝ/ (US) · /flˈɪkɐ/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Verb

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/flicker
Updated: 2026-05-08

## Definition

to shine with a light that keeps going on and off or getting brighter and softer. You can also use it to describe a quick, weak feeling or movement.

For teachers: to shine with an unsteady or wavering light; to move with a rapid, jerky motion. Often describes light sources or brief emotional displays.

## Examples

- The candle began to flicker in the wind.
- The old streetlights flicker every time a heavy truck drives past the building.
- A brief smile began to flicker across her face before she regained her composure and continued the difficult negotiation.

## Usage notes

- Intransitive — does not take a direct object.

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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.