flutter

Everyday

1. To move wings quickly and lightly, or to fly with quick small movements, like a butterfly. tree →
2. To move gently and quickly back and forth in the air, like a flag or leaves. tree →
3. (of the heart) To beat fast and unevenly because of excitement or nerves. tree →
4. (noun, UK informal) A small bet: «have a flutter on the horses». tree →
5. (noun) A state of excitement: «in a flutter». tree →

In the lessons

In science and nature stories butterflies, moths and birds flutter. In stories a nervous character's heart flutters. In UK and Irish everyday talk a «flutter» is a small, fun bet on a horse race. Phrases: «flutter about», «flutter your eyelashes», «have a flutter», «in a flutter».

Examples

• The butterfly fluttered from flower to flower. tree →
• The flags fluttered in the wind. tree →
• My heart fluttered when they called my name. tree →
• Leaves fluttered down to the ground. tree →
• Grandad has a little flutter on the Grand National. tree →
• The baby bird fluttered its wings but couldn't fly yet. tree →
• She was all in a flutter before the show. tree →
• But the Eagle, uttering a dolorous cry, fluttered his broad wings and disappeared. tree →

Note

Regular verb: fluttered. Double t. «A flutter» (bet) is UK/Ireland informal. Similar: flap (bigger, slower), flicker (light), quiver.