fling
UK: flɪŋ | US: flɪŋ
v. to throw or move something suddenly with force
v. to engage in a brief, impulsive romantic or sexual relationship
n. a short period of unrestrained enjoyment or behavior
n. an act of throwing something forcefully
The word "fling" originates from Old Norse flengja, meaning "to whip or lash," reflecting sudden, forceful motion. The root fl- is associated with swift movement (seen in words like "fly" or "flee"), while -ing denotes the action. Over time, "fling" evolved to describe both physical throwing and impulsive actions, capturing the essence of quick, unrestrained motion—whether literal or metaphorical.
She flung the door open in anger.
They had a brief fling during their summer vacation.
He decided to fling caution to the wind and quit his job.
The child flung his arms around his mother.
The festival was her last fling before starting college.