Blushing is a physiological response that occurs when blood vessels in the face dilate, causing the skin to turn red. It is a common reaction to embarrassment, shame, or shyness, and can also occur in response to other emotional stimuli.
Definitions
Blushing is defined as a reddening of the face and neck caused by increased blood flow to the skin’s surface. It is a natural response to embarrassment, shame, or other emotional stimuli.
Origin
The word “blush” comes from the Old English word “blæsan,” which means “to turn red.” The physiological response of blushing has been observed in humans and animals for thousands of years.
Meaning in different dictionaries
Different dictionaries define blushing in slightly different ways. The Merriam-Webster dictionary defines it as “to become red in the face especially from modesty, embarrassment, or shame.” The Oxford English Dictionary defines it as “to become red in the face as a result of embarrassment, shame, or modesty.”
Associations
Blushing is often associated with feelings of embarrassment, shame, or shyness. It can also be a sign of attraction or arousal in some situations.
Synonyms
Synonyms for blushing include flushing, reddening, and turning red.
Antonyms
Antonyms for blushing include paling, whitening, and fading.
The same root words
Words related to blushing include blushful, blushingly, and blushless.
Example Sentences
- She couldn’t help but blush when he complimented her.
- The embarrassment was so intense that she felt her face turning red with blushing.
- He knew he was blushing, but he couldn’t stop himself from feeling embarrassed.
- The sight of him made her heart race and her cheeks flush with blushing.
- Despite her attempts to hide it, the blushing on her face gave away her true feelings.