Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

nictate

verb
/ˈnɪk.teɪt/
Definition
To blink or wink; to close the eyelids briefly.
Examples
  • As the sun shone brightly, she had to nictate to avoid irritation.
  • The cat would often nictate while watching birds from the window.
  • He felt the need to nictate repeatedly during the long lecture.
Meaning
The act of momentarily closing the eyelids, usually as a reflex to protect the eyes or moisten the surface.
Synonyms
  • blink
  • wink
  • flutter