flares

word · lemma: flare

Definition

'Flares' can mean bright signals (like emergency lights or fireworks used for warnings) or a style of pants that are wide at the bottom.

Usage & Nuances

'Flares' (plural) often refers to more than one signal device or pair of pants. Collocations: 'emergency flares', 'road flares', 'flare jeans'. Informal when talking about fashion ('flares' for trousers). In clothing, mostly UK/European English; Americans say 'bell-bottoms'.

Example Sentences

Road workers use flares at night for safety.

basic

She wore blue flares to the party.

basic

The rescue team sent up flares to signal for help.

basic

I've always loved wearing vintage flares from the 70s.

natural

After the accident, they lit flares so the ambulance could find them.

natural

Retro is back—everyone’s buying flares again this year.

natural