flasher

American  

[flash-er] / ˈflæʃ ər /

noun

1. a person or thing that flashes.

2. a flashing flash light operated by a switching device that automatically turns it on and off alternately.

3. a signal light on an automotive vehicle that can be made to flash, as to indicate the intention of making a turn or to call attention to a vehicle that has slowed or stopped in a hazardous place.

4. the switching device that operates such a light.

5. Slang. a person, especially a man, who exposes the genitals suddenly, and usually briefly, in public.

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flasher British  

/ ˈflæʃə /

noun

1. something that flashes, such as a direction indicator on a vehicle

2. slang a person who indecently exposes himself

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Etymology

Origin of flasher

First recorded in 1605–15; flash + -er ¹

Example Sentences

Subtle flasher systems in a window and near a bumper.

From Washington Post • May 23, 2022

“They’ve hit the emergency flasher in the campaign,” Mr. Newhouse said.

From New York Times • Jul. 16, 2020

Black bass are good on topwater, and flasher baits.

From Washington Times • May 6, 2020

She also recalls being handed a whistle at Columbia University library after reports of a flasher lurking among the shelves, a precaution she finds hysterical today.

From The Guardian • Mar. 3, 2019

Bruno Martinez tumbled out, leaving the emergency flasher on, grabl>ed the doorhandle, and thudded loudly into the locked door.

From "The Milagro Beanfield War" by John Nichols