winced

[winst] / wɪnst /

VERB

draw back

Synonyms

STRONGEST

back off blanch cower cringe flinch grimace recoil

STRONG

blench dodge duck jib quail shrink shy start swerve turn

WEAK

make a face

Antonyms

STRONGEST

face meet

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

I wonder if any of the cardinals and other Vatican officials in the audience winced at the notion of the Bishop of Rome taking his place as one among many “moral voices.”

From The Wall Street Journal • May 27, 2026

The ensuing sound of the collision's initial impact was so loud that jurors winced after being warned to decrease the volume on their listening devices.

From Barron's • Feb. 2, 2026

While Sinjin might’ve winced through every extra-point rally, Hagen soaked it all in — steady under pressure..

From Los Angeles Times • Jul. 13, 2025

When we asked about how young people feel about Americans, the minder winced visibly and tried to stop her answering.

From BBC • Apr. 29, 2025

Charles took a long swallow, winced and nodded.

From "The Secret History" by Donna Tartt