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fling definition

fling (fliŋ)

transitive verb flung, flinging fling′·ing

  1. to throw, esp. with force or violence; hurl; cast
  2. to put abruptly or violently to be flung into confusion
  3. to move (one's arms, legs, head, etc.) suddenly or impulsively
  4. to throw (oneself) energetically (into a task)
  5. to throw aside; disregard to fling caution to the winds
  6. Old Poet. to emit or diffuse

Etymology: ME flingen, to rush < ON flengja, to whip (Norw dial., to throw) < IE base *plāk-: see flaw

intransitive verb

  1. to move suddenly and violently; rush; dash
  2. to kick and plunge, as a horse does: often with out

noun

  1. an act of flinging
  2. a brief time of unrestrained pleasures or dissipation
  3. a spirited dance the Highland fling
  4. Informal a trial effort; try to have a fling at acting
  5. Informal a brief love affair

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