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flex
/flɛks/
show off or display something impressively
He loves to flex his new car on social media.
He enjoys showing off his new car online.
informalslang
to show off or display something impressively, often to gain admiration or attention
She couldn't resist flexing her new designer bag.
She couldn't help but show off her new designer bag.
The athlete flexed his muscles after winning the competition.
The athlete displayed his muscles proudly after winning.
Commonly used in informal contexts, especially on social media.
general
to bend or move something in a flexible manner
The yoga instructor told her to flex her knees.
The yoga instructor instructed her to bend her knees slightly.
The material can flex without breaking.
The material can bend without breaking.
This is the more literal and general meaning of the word.
Related Phrases
Pro Tip
Context Matters
The meaning of 'flex' depends heavily on context. In slang, it means showing off, while in general usage, it refers to bending or moving something.
Gold Rule
Avoid Overuse
Using 'flex' too often in formal settings may come across as unprofessional.
Word Origin
From Latin 'flectere' meaning 'to bend', with modern slang usage emerging in the 21st century.
Usage Notes
The slang meaning of 'flex' is widely used in social media and informal conversations, particularly among younger generations.
Word Breakdown
flex
to bend or show off
rootEnglish Dictionary