wink
verb (used without object)
to close and open one eye quickly as a hint or signal or with some sly meaning (often followed byat ).
winking
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present participleof wink.present participle
A verb form that is used in progressive verb constructions and may also function as a modifier or a gerund.
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.
If you can’t get enough of that show’s visual irony, metatextual references and winking at entertainment tropes, here’s 10 more episodes of the same feeling, only Earthbound.
From Salon ● Jul. 25, 2026
Through female solidarity, she said with a raised eyebrow and a winking smile, women can “stand up to anything, and anyone.”
From Slate ● May 6, 2026
All of Mr. Horowitz’s conceits are present here: a murder mystery within the murder mystery, winking nods at the author’s real-life career as a novelist and screenwriter, and playful experimentation with the detective-story form.
From The Wall Street Journal ● May 1, 2026
Just before his dinner toast, Charles quoted a Shakespearean plea for peace -- but ended with a winking reference.
From Barron's ● Apr. 29, 2026
“I think,” she says, taking a sip from her mug and winking, “it’s gonna be one of them years!”
From "Isaiah Dunn Is My Hero" by Kelly J. Baptist
