# flushed

/ˈfɫəʃt/ (US) · /flˈʌʃt/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/flushed
Updated: 2026-05-07

## Definition

having a red face because you are hot, embarrassed, or sick. It describes the way your skin looks when blood rushes to the surface.

For teachers: having a reddened or glowing complexion, typically as a physiological response to heat, physical exertion, or strong emotion. Often used predicatively after linking verbs like 'look' or 'become'.

## Examples

- His face was flushed after the long run.
- She looked flushed and nervous as she walked onto the stage to give her presentation.
- The child appeared flushed and lethargic, prompting the school nurse to check for a fever before calling his parents to collect him.

## Usage notes

- Typically functions as a participial adjective; often follows linking verbs like 'be', 'look', or 'feel'.

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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.