flirtation
UK[flɜːˈteɪʃn]US[flɜːrˈteɪʃn]
n
behaviour that shows a sexual attraction to somebody, but is not meant to be taken seriously.
n
a short period of time during which you are involved or interested in something, but not seriously.
Morpheme Breakdown
flirt
ation
flirt
to play at courtship
ation
noun suffix
Etymology
the word 'flirtation' is built upon the verb 'flirt', whose origins are somewhat obscure but likely evocative. one strong theory traces it to the old french 'fleureter', meaning 'to touch lightly' or 'to move from flower to flower', itself from 'fleur' (flower). this imagery of light, playful, and non-serious engagement perfectly captures the essence of flirting. the latin-derived suffix '-ation' was later appended to form the noun, standardizing the process of denoting the act or instance of such playful behaviour. thus, the term evolved from a literal sense of light, fleeting contact to its modern abstract meaning describing playful romantic or casual interest.
Analysis
Structure: flirt (to play at courtship) + ation (noun suffix)
flirt (origin uncertain, possibly imitative or from old french 'fleureter', meaning 'to touch lightly'; functions as the verbal root). ation (from latin '-ationem', a suffix forming nouns of action or state; functions as a nominalizer).
Examples
their conversation was full of lighthearted flirtation.
he had a brief flirtation with a career in acting before becoming a lawyer.
she dismissed his compliments as mere flirtation.