# flirty

/flˈɜːti/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/flirty
Updated: 2026-05-11

## Definition

behaving in a way that shows you are sexually attracted to someone, but usually in a playful or lighthearted way.

For teachers: behaving in a manner that suggests a playful sexual attraction to another person. Often used predicatively after linking verbs like 'be' or 'get'.

## Examples

- She gave him a flirty smile across the room.
- They spent the entire evening in a flirty conversation, though neither seemed interested in a serious relationship.
- The novel's protagonist is known for her flirty banter, a social defense mechanism she uses to keep people at a distance while appearing approachable.

## Usage notes

- Typically used to describe behavior, gestures, or comments. Often follows linking verbs such as 'be', 'seem', or 'act'.

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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.