Meaning & use
fluttering eyelashes
Last updated
Meanings
phraseplural
the quick, light movement of the eyelashes, often used to attract attention or show emotion.
Grammar: Used as a plural noun phrase; it can be the subject or object of a sentence.
Patterns
- with fluttering eyelashes
- her fluttering eyelashes
She gave him a look with fluttering eyelashes.
The actress was known for her fluttering eyelashes and shy smile.
He noticed her fluttering eyelashes across the room.
phraseidiom
the act of opening and closing the eyes quickly, especially to flirt or persuade.
Grammar: Often used after 'by' or 'with' to describe a way of behaving.
Patterns
- by fluttering eyelashes
- fluttering eyelashes at someone
She tried to get her way by fluttering her eyelashes.
He laughed at her fluttering eyelashes and gave in.
Stop fluttering your eyelashes at me—it won't work.
Common combinations
- fluttering eyelashes at someone
- She was fluttering her eyelashes at the waiter to get a free dessert.
- with fluttering eyelashes
- He asked for help with fluttering eyelashes.
- a flutter of eyelashes
- A quick flutter of eyelashes gave away her nervousness.
Synonyms and how they differ
- batting eyelashes
- Batting eyelashes is a more idiomatic phrase for the same action, often suggesting flirtation.
Word family
- flutter verb
- to move with quick, light movements.
- eyelash noun
- one of the short hairs on the edge of the eyelid.
Commonly confused: fluttering eyelashes or flattering?
fluttering eyelashes vs flattering
Flattering means praising or making someone look good; fluttering is a quick movement.
Practice
What does 'fluttering eyelashes' usually describe?
Choose one answer.
The phrase describes a quick, light movement, often used to flirt or persuade. It is not a medical condition or makeup, and it is fast, not slow.
Make it your own
Write a sentence using “fluttering eyelashes”, then check it and compare it with the examples above.