flex

/flɛks/
nounverbIntermediate
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.

Collocations

flex musclesshow off physical strength or powerflex onshow off to someone, often in a competitive way

Synonyms

Antonyms

Related Phrases

flexingphrase
the act of showing off
flex tapephrase
a brand of strong adhesive tape

💡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
root
English Dictionary