flicker
UK[ˈflɪkə]US[ˈflɪkər]
v
to burn or shine with an unsteady light that goes on and off quickly
v
to appear or be present for a very short time and then disappear
n
a flickering light or movement
Etymology
The word 'flicker' originates from Old English flicorian, meaning 'to flutter, flap the wings'. This verb is believed to be of onomatopoeic origin, imitating the light, quick, fluttering sound or motion it describes. It is related to other Germanic words like Middle Low German flikeren (to flutter) and Old Norse flökra (to flutter). The semantic evolution moved naturally from describing the rapid, irregular motion of a bird's wings to describing an unsteady, wavering light or a brief, fleeting appearance, capturing the same essence of quick, intermittent movement.
Analysis
The word 'flicker' is a simplex word of Old English origin, likely imitative in nature. It functions as a whole unit to convey its meaning.
Examples
The candle began to flicker in the draft.
A smile flickered across his face for just a moment.
The old movie had a constant flicker on the screen.