flit

verb

ˈflit 

flitted; flitting

intransitive verb

1

: to pass quickly or abruptly from one place or condition to another

2

archaic : alter, shift

3

: to move in an erratic fluttering manner

flit noun

Synonyms

• dance
• dart
• flick
• flicker
• flirt
• flitter
• flutter
• zip

Examples of flit in a Sentence

butterflies flitting around the garden

The hummingbird flitted from flower to flower.

She was always flitting around the kitchen.

Recent Examples on the Web

Most of my favorite movies of 2024 premièred at overseas film festivals, only to flit through U.S. theatres for a few weeks at most. —Justin Chang, The New Yorker, 18 Dec. 2024

Her manager, Billy, was there, and Cher was flitting around in the background, preparing for the opening. —Carly Tagen-Dye, People.com, 16 Dec. 2024

In Al-Birka Square, a crowded marketplace area in Deir al Balah, a parallel money market has emerged where people flit from broker to broker trying to find the one who will cash their paycheck with the lowest commission. —Bilal Shbair and Nabih Bulos, Los Angeles Times, 5 Dec. 2024

Time can be spent flitting between the rooftop infinity pool and daily cooking classes or tequila tastings, or simply lounging by the beach with a cocktail. —Meagan Drillinger, Travel + Leisure, 1 Dec. 2024

Word History

Etymology

Middle English flitten, of Scandinavian origin; akin to Old Norse flytjask to move, Old English flēotan to float

First Known Use

13th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing flit

• do a moonlight flit

Kids Definition

flit

verb

ˈflit 

flitted; flitting

: to move or progress in a quick irregular manner

flit noun