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

Our days here consisted of flitting between the various pools and the beach, trying out the multiple restaurants, and simply wandering the gorgeous botanic gardens that make up the grounds between the mountain and the Mediterranean. —Devorah Lev-Tov, Travel + Leisure, 25 Oct. 2024

Their movement was sensual but assertive, bordering on violent, flitting between slow body rolls and athletic thrusts. —Coralie Kraft, New York Times, 9 Oct. 2024

In this collection of vignettes centered on the angel Azrael, Williams flits through the moments before and after death. —The New Yorker, 30 Sep. 2024

Over the years, various children have flitted in and out of favor with their father. —David Folkenflik, NPR, 16 Sep. 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