Wink at
verb
To close and open one eye quickly.
She winked at me to show she was joking.
Often appears as...
- wink at me
- wink at him
verb
To ignore something that is illegal or wrong.
The authorities have long been accused of winking at corruption in the city government.
Often appears as...
- wink at corruption
- wink at misconduct
Usage tips
Formal, Disapproving
verb
To signal, hint, or communicate silently by winking.
She winked at me to indicate that I should follow her downstairs.
Often appears as...
- wink at them
- wink at her
verb
To close and open one eye quickly.
She winked at me to show she was joking.
Often appears as...
- wink at me
- wink at him
verb
To ignore something that is illegal or wrong.
The authorities have long been accused of winking at corruption in the city government.
Often appears as...
- wink at corruption
- wink at misconduct
Usage tips
Formal, Disapproving
verb
To signal, hint, or communicate silently by winking.
She winked at me to indicate that I should follow her downstairs.
Often appears as...
- wink at them
- wink at her
Definition 1 of 3
Pro Tip 1/2Playful Gesture
Winking can show humor or playfulness in a friendly situation.
He winked at me as he told the funny story.
Pro Tip 2/2Non-Verbal Cue
A wink is often used as a non-verbal cue in communication to share a secret or inside joke.
During the surprise party, she winked at me to keep quiet.
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