blinking
UK: ˈblɪŋkɪŋ | US: ˈblɪŋkɪŋ
adj. 1. (informal) Used as an intensifier, often to express annoyance or emphasis (e.g., "the blinking light won't stop!").
adj. 2. Flashing intermittently; opening and closing rapidly (e.g., "a blinking cursor").
v. (present participle of "blink") 3. The act of closing and reopening the eyes quickly.
The word "blink" originated in Middle English (as "blenken"), likely from Old Norse "blenkja" (to blink, twinkle) or Dutch "blinken" (to shine). The core idea revolves around rapid movement or light fluctuation. The suffix "-ing" turns the verb into an adjective or noun, emphasizing the ongoing action (e.g., "blinking lights") or intensifying emotion (informal usage). The word’s evolution reflects a blend of Germanic roots tied to visual reflexes and light phenomena.
The blinking traffic signal confused the drivers.
She kept blinking back tears during the speech.
"Where’s that blinking remote?" he grumbled.
The cat sat still, blinking slowly in the sunlight.
A blinking notification alerted him to the new message.