# flirtation

/fɫɝˈteɪʃən/ (US) · /flɜːtˈeɪʃən/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/flirtation
Updated: 2026-05-28

## Definition

a playful or romantic way of acting toward someone. It can also mean a short time spent doing something you are not serious about.

For teachers: a playful or romantic behavior intended to attract someone; alternatively, a brief period of involvement in an activity or relationship. Often implies a lack of serious commitment.

## Examples

- Their flirtation lasted for months before they became a couple.
- The politician's flirtation with the new economic policy ended as soon as the public reaction turned negative.
- What began as a harmless flirtation with the idea of retirement eventually evolved into a full-time commitment to a life of travel and writing.

---

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.