flirtation

[ flur-tey-shuhn ]

noun

1. the act or practice of flirting; coquetry.
2. a love affair that is not serious.

flirtation

/ flɜːˈteɪʃən /

noun

1. behaviour intended to arouse sexual feelings or advances without emotional commitment; coquetry
2. any casual involvement without commitment

   a flirtation with journalism

Other Words From

• flir·tation·al adjective
• flir·tation·less adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of flirtation¹

First recorded in 1710–20; flirt + -ation

Example Sentences

The series observes Australians on the autism spectrum as they search for The One and meet with a dating coach to discuss the fundamentals of dating and flirtation.

From The Daily Beast

The plot’s flirtation with the supernatural will remind readers of her most celebrated stories, including “The Pagan Rabbi,” “The Shawl” and “The Puttermesser Papers.”

From Washington Post

For many, that has meant gravitating to the Web, with video from previously taped productions, Zoom readings, and flirtations with Webcasts, radio plays and newly filmed works.

From Washington Post

In a written statement over the weekend, Cuomo said that some of his comments might have been “misinterpreted as an unwanted flirtation.”

From Washington Post

I acknowledge some of the things I have said have been misinterpreted as an unwanted flirtation.

From Washington Post

When asked by the BBC about his flirtation with 9/11 denialism—just asking questions, people!

From The Daily Beast

In that economy, the price of a smile would only be a smile, and flirtation could be exchanged only for flirtation.

From The Daily Beast

Just look at comedian Bill Maher's short-lived flirtation with Paul.

From The Daily Beast

Meanwhile, Carmela has an erotic religion-tinged flirtation with Father Phil back at the house.

From The Daily Beast

As the balloons and electricity scared us, inhibitions were naturally lowered and I saw the flirtation begin.

From The Daily Beast

Because Hartledon once had a flirtation with your daughter, does that give you leave to haunt him as if you were his double?

From Project Gutenberg

Aristide was young, he loved flirtation, and flirtation flourished in the Avenue des Plantanes.

From Project Gutenberg

You are found in the library engaged in a bold flirtation with her Highness's son, Prince Boris.

From Project Gutenberg

No lady of taste will carry on a flirtation in a ball room, so as to attract remark.

From Project Gutenberg

If they know they will fight shy of the garden, and many a promising flirtation will be spoilt.

From Project Gutenberg

Related Words

• dalliance
• flirting
• toying