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clin

wink

noun KLAN Rare
Communication Expressions

Usage Note

Clin is almost always found in the fixed expression un clin d'œil, meaning a wink or a knowing allusion. En un clin d'œil means 'in the blink of an eye' (very quickly). The standalone word clin has no common independent use, so learners should memorise the full phrase rather than the bare noun.

Examples

"Il m'a fait un clin d'œil."

Natural Translation

He winked at me.

Literal Translation

He made a wink of eye at me.

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