Bat Her Eyelashes: Definition, Meaning and Origin

Last Updated on
May 25, 2023

The idiom "bat her eyelashes" refers to the act of a woman blinking her eyes quickly to attract someone's attention or to persuade someone. It represents a non-verbal form of communication, typically associated with flirtation or subtle manipulation.

In short:

"Bat her eyelashes" means a woman is subtly trying to attract attention or persuade someone, often through a flirtatious gesture.

What Does "Bat Her Eyelashes" Mean?

The idiom "bat her eyelashes" conveys that a woman is making a conscious effort to capture someone's attention or persuade them using her eyes. It signifies the use of subtle, non-verbal cues to influence others.

Key aspects of the idiom's meaning include:

  • Indicates a subtle, non-verbal form of communication
  • Commonly associated with flirtation or persuasion
  • Represents a manipulative tactic, often used in a playful or harmless context

Where Does "Bat Her Eyelashes" Come From?

The origin of the phrase "bat her eyelashes" is not clear, but it has been in use for several decades. The idiom draws on the universal human behavior of using eye movements as a form of non-verbal communication. It may also be a reference to the way that cats and other animals blink their eyes rapidly when they are trying to be cute or appealing.

Historical Example

"Why couldn't she be as confident as Babs and bat her eyelashes at him?"

- Mystery in the Moonlight, Lynn Patrick, 1986

Examples of "Bat Her Eyelashes" in Sentences

Here are some instances where this idiom seamlessly fits into sentences:

  • She batted her eyelashes at the waiter, hoping to get an extra scoop of ice cream.
  • The bearer of bad news still managed to bat her eyelashes and soften the blow.
  • He was completely taken in when she batted her eyelashes at him, instantly agreeing to her request.
  • "Till next time," she said, batting her eyelashes, promising more adventures in the future.
  • As soon as she batted her eyelashes, he understood he needed to act tout de suite to win her affection.
  • When she wants something, she just bats her eyelashes, and people tend to give in.
  • She batted her eyelashes and leaned in to whisper her deep dark secret to him.
  • Batting her eyelashes, she managed to persuade her father to extend her curfew.
  • "I'm beat," he said, but couldn't resist when she batted her eyelashes for one last dance.
  • Despite batting her eyelashes, she was unable to convince him to change his decision.

Examples of "Bat Her Eyelashes" in Pop Culture

The use of the idiom extends to various aspects of pop culture, often depicting a character's attempts at persuasion or flirtation.

Some notable examples include:

  • "She'd told me many times, that's what men like, women who bat their eyelashes" is a quote from the 2013 book "Body Geographic" by Barrie Hean Borich.
  • "Not for the first time in her life, Julia wished she knew how to bat her eyelashes and cozy up to a guy to get what she wanted" is a quote from the 2012 romance novel "The Long Shot by" Ellen Hartman.

Other/Different Ways to Say "Bat Her Eyelashes"

There are several other ways to express the meaning of the phrase in English.

These alternative phrases include:

  • Flutter her eyelashes
  • Blink rapidly
  • Flash her eyes

You may use these alternatives interchangeably depending on the context and the degree of flirtation or persuasion intended.

10 Frequently Asked Questions About "Bat Her Eyelashes"

  • What does the idiom "bat her eyelashes" mean?

This idiom refers to the act of a woman blinking her eyes quickly to attract someone's attention or to persuade someone. It's a non-verbal form of communication often associated with flirtation or subtle manipulation.

  • Where does the phrase "bat her eyelashes" come from?

The exact origin of the phrase "bat her eyelashes" is not known, but it has been in common use for several decades. The idiom is based on the universal human behavior of using eye movements as a form of non-verbal communication.

  • How can "bat her eyelashes" be used in a sentence?

Here's an example: "She batted her eyelashes at him, making him instantly agree to her request."

  • Is "bat her eyelashes" a positive or negative phrase?

The connotation of "bat her eyelashes" can be either positive or negative, depending on the context. While it often represents a harmless, flirtatious gesture, it can also indicate manipulation when used with certain intentions.

  • Is it appropriate in a formal setting?

Yes, the phrase "bat her eyelashes" can be used in a formal setting. However, it's more commonly used in informal or casual conversations.

  • Can the phrase "bat her eyelashes" be used for men?

While the phrase is typically used to describe a woman's actions, it can technically be used for anyone blinking their eyes quickly to attract attention or persuade. But it's less common.

  • How is the idiom "bat her eyelashes" depicted in popular culture?

This idiom is often used in TV shows, movies, and songs to depict a character's attempts at persuasion or flirtation. Characters may be shown batting their eyelashes to subtly influence others.

  • Are there any famous quotes that use the idiom "bat her eyelashes"?

While there are no particularly famous quotes that use this idiom, it's frequently used in various forms of literature and media to describe subtle, persuasive behavior.

  • What are some other idioms related to "bat her eyelashes"?

Some related idioms include "flutter her eyelashes" and "make eyes at," both referring to similar flirtatious or attention-seeking behaviors.

  • What's the difference between "bat her eyelashes" and "flutter her eyelashes"?

There's no significant difference between these two idioms. Both phrases refer to the act of rapidly blinking to attract attention or persuade someone.

Final Thoughts About "Bat Her Eyelashes"

The idiom "bat her eyelashes" illustrates the subtle, non-verbal communication methods used by women to attract attention or to persuade. It signifies that these gestures can sometimes sway people's decisions or perceptions.

Key aspects of the phrase:

  • Signifies non-verbal, often flirtatious communication
  • Indicates a manipulative yet subtle gesture
  • Generally used in a harmless or playful context

Keep in mind that the idiom highlights the influence of subtle gestures and the power of non-verbal communication. It's a reminder that not all communication is verbal, and body language can often convey more than words.

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