Flitting

Flitting describes a quick, light, and transient movement. It implies a rapid, almost effortless, and often erratic motion from one place or object to another. This movement can be physical, like a butterfly dancing in the air, or metaphorical, referring to thoughts or emotions that pass swiftly through the mind. The defining characteristic is the brevity and insubstantiality of the movement or experience. Often suggesting a lack of permanence, flitting conveys a sense of lightness, and often indicates avoidance or evasion. The word suggests an ephemeral and elusive presence, suggesting a lack of focus or a tendency to be easily distracted.

Flitting meaning with examples

• The hummingbird, a blur of green and red, spent the morning flitting between the vibrant hibiscus blossoms, its tiny wings a frantic dance. It barely paused long enough to be observed before moving to the next one. This ephemeral visitation was only fleetingly captured in my memory.
• Her attention, a restless spirit, found it difficult to stay in one place, constantly flitting from subject to subject during the conversation. Each idea presented was only partially explored, a consequence of her quick change of focus. The other person was quickly frustrated, unsure of how to keep her attention.
• Memories of her childhood, like fireflies on a summer night, began flitting through her mind as she prepared for her reunion. These fragmented recollections were rich and detailed, bringing joy and happiness as the images faded into the past, but the feelings were just as short.
• As the rumors of the scandal spread through the office, employees began flitting about, avoiding direct eye contact and attempting to appear occupied to not be dragged into the gossip. This attempt at evasion and distraction was soon obvious to all, but still worked in the short term.
• The musician, his fingers moving effortlessly across the fretboard, produced a melody of notes that were flitting and light. It seemed as though each note lingered for only the briefest moment before disappearing into the next, creating an effect of lightness.