winced
Americanverb
Etymology
Origin of winced
First recorded in 1630–40; winc(e) 1 ( def. ) + -ed 1 ( def. ) for the past tense; winc(e) 1 ( def. ) + -ed 2 ( def. ) for the past participle
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
The ensuing sound of the collision's initial impact was so loud that jurors winced after being warned to decrease the volume on their listening devices.
From Barron's • Feb. 2, 2026
Like many, I’ve previously winced at hop-on, hop-off city bus tours, but around $29 for a 60-minute ride seemed worth it to get the lay of the land in this densely populated place.
From The Wall Street Journal • Jan. 10, 2026
After winning a 27-shot exchange at 4-4 0-30 down, Djokovic winced and gasped for air before bending over his towel box.
From BBC • Sep. 5, 2025
When asked how he would define his career at this juncture, Bacon winced a little bit, saying it isn’t something he does too often.
From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 3, 2025
Aunt Sera winced at her use of the word.
From "The Marvellers" by Dhonielle Clayton
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
