to flit
Pronunciation
/ˈfɫɪt/

Definition & Meaning of "flit"in English

to flit
01

to move quickly and lightly from somewhere or something to another

Grammatical Information
Composition
Simple
Movement verb
Regular
Present tense
flit
3rd person singular
flits
Present participle
flitting
Past simple
flitted
Past participle
flitted
Examples
Butterflies flit gracefully from flower to flower in the garden.
Flit
01

a sudden, rapid, or light movement

Grammatical Information
Animacy status
Abstract
Composition
Simple
Countable
Plural form
flits
Examples
A flit of a bird startled the cat.
02

an act of moving secretly or stealthily, especially to evade obligations

Examples
The debtor made a quiet flit to avoid creditors.
03

a gay man

Offensive
Slang

What is the origin of the term "flit" and how is it used?

Flit is a slang term that appeared in early–mid 20th-century English to describe a gay man, particularly one perceived as effeminate, delicate, or lightly mannered. The word comes from the verb "flit," meaning to move quickly or lightly, emphasizing fluttery or fleeting behavior. Historically, it was derogatory, used to mock or belittle men who did not conform to traditional masculine norms. Today it is mostly historical, rarely recognized outside discussions of vintage gay slang, and using it in modern conversation is likely to offend.

Examples
The flit danced across the room, laughing loudly.
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