Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /twɪndʒ/
KK: /twɪndʒ/
Definition
To experience a sudden sharp pain or a brief feeling of discomfort.
Example
She felt a twinge in her back after lifting the heavy box.
Tense Forms
Past: twinged
Past Participle: twinged
Conversation

I felt a bit of a twinge in my back while lifting those boxes yesterday.

Oh no, that doesn't sound good! Are you okay?

Yeah, it's just a small twinge, but I should probably stretch more.

Definitely! Stretching can really help prevent those kinds of issues.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Definition
A quick, sharp feeling of pain or a sudden feeling of guilt or regret.
Example
She felt a twinge of guilt after lying to her friend.
Conversation

I felt a strange twinge in my back while lifting that box yesterday.

Ouch! That sounds painful. Did you hurt yourself?

I think it was just a little twinge, but I might need to stretch more.
Definition
To cause a sudden sharp pain or discomfort in a specific area of the body.
Example
The news of her departure gave him a twinge of sadness.
Tense Forms
Past: twinged
Past Participle: twinged
Conversation

I felt a sharp twinge in my back when I picked that box up yesterday.

Ouch, that sounds painful! Did you hurt yourself?

I think I just need to stretch more; it was a sudden twinge that caught me off guard.
Root Explanation
Twinge → This word originates from Middle English 'twinge', which is derived from the Old English 'twingan', meaning to twist or to pull. The word 'twinge' refers to a sharp, sudden pain or a feeling of discomfort, often associated with a twisting sensation.
Memory Tip
Think of a sudden 'twist' or 'pull' that causes a sharp pain — that's what a twinge feels like.
Visually Confused Words
tinge
wingle
winger
winged
whinge
towing
tingle
tinger