fluttering
word · lemma: flutter
Definition
Moving quickly and lightly back and forth, up and down, or side to side, like wings or a small flag in the wind. Often describes the movement of something delicate, such as leaves, wings, or fabric.
Usage & Nuances
Common in descriptive, literary, and poetic English, often for wings ('butterflies fluttering'), fabric ('curtains fluttering'), or feelings ('a fluttering heart' means nervous excitement). Slightly formal or literary tone; not used for heavy or jerky movements.
Example Sentences
The butterfly is fluttering its wings.
basic
The leaves were fluttering in the breeze.
basic
A small flag was fluttering on the roof.
basic
My heart was fluttering before the big presentation.
natural
The curtains were fluttering softly in the sunlight.
natural
He felt a strange fluttering feeling in his stomach when he saw her.
natural