Definition of the word flirt with

The origin of the phrase "flirt with" can be traced back to the 16th century, during a time when English was still evolving and borrowing words from other languages. The original meaning of "flirt" was actually "a sudden gust of wind," which came from the Middle Dutch word vlisteren, meaning "to blow." However, by the 18th century, the meaning of "flirt" had shifted to refer to a person who was romantically playful and teasing, particularly when in the presence of members of the opposite sex. This new meaning may have been influenced by the French word flâter, which means "to pay court" or "to court someone's favor." The phrase "flirt with" came into usage around this time as a way to describe the act of engaging in flirtatious behavior or showing romantic interest in someone. It is often used in a milder sense than "flirt," implying a casual or lighthearted approach to flirtation. Overall, the journey of "flirt" and "flirt with" from a wind gust to a romantic gesture is a testament to the ever-evolving nature of language and the important role of borrowing words from other languages in shaping the English vocabulary.