What does winkle mean?
Winkle is a chiefly British word for a small crease or fold in the skin, especially one that forms between the eyebrows or on the forehead when someone frowns or concentrates. In informal use, it can also refer to a pimple or another small raised spot on the skin, giving the word the unusual distinction of covering both a line and a bump. As a verb, winkle means to form a small crease, usually as the result of a facial expression. The word can also name a small marine snail, particularly a periwinkle found along rocky shores. Although “wrinkle” is related and can sound similar, a winkle is generally smaller and more specific. Winkle is therefore a useful example of how everyday English preserves fine distinctions in facial description while retaining a slightly playful or informal tone.
A small crease or fold in the skin, especially on the forehead; by extension, a pimple or small raised spot. In regional usage, it also names a small marine snail, especially a periwinkle.
"There was a winkle on his forehead as he read the difficult passage."
The skin-related senses are chiefly British and often informal. The marine-snail sense is chiefly associated with British English and nearby varieties.
To form a small crease or fold, especially in the forehead when frowning or concentrating.
"Her forehead winkled as she tried to solve the puzzle."
Chiefly British and informal; it is less common in American English.
The plural is used for multiple small creases, spots, or other objects referred to as winkles.
"A few winkles appeared across his forehead."
A winkle can describe both a tiny facial crease and a small raised spot on the skin, so one word covers both the line and the bump.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does winkle come from?
Winkle is an English word recorded in Middle English, with both noun and verb uses attested. It is generally connected with “wrinkle,” although the precise historical development of the two forms is not entirely certain. The word later acquired the additional meaning of a pimple or small raised spot and, in regional English, the name of a small shore snail.
Related word forms
How winkle is actually used
The word is most familiar in British and Irish English and is often informal or mildly humorous when referring to a facial crease or pimple. The use for a small shore snail is chiefly associated with British English and related regional varieties.
Easily confused with winkle
A winkle is a small crease or fold, especially on the forehead, whereas a wrinkle is generally a more prominent line or fold in the skin or fabric.