Definition of flit

The word "flit" originated in Middle English, around the 14th century. At the time, it was spelled "fliche" and meant "move suddenly and lightly" or "flee quickly." The word was likely derived from the Old English word "fleoccian," which meant "flee" or "depart." "Fliche" evolved over time, taking different forms in different regions. In Scotland, for example, it became "flette," meaning "butterfly." In Northern England, it became "flint," meaning "moth." And in the southeastern part of England, where the word originated, it developed into "flit," which still carries the meaning of "move suddenly and quickly" today. The word "flit" is often used figuratively to describe quick and unexpected changes, as in "he flitted from job to job" or "she flitted from relationship to relationship." In the early 1900s, the term "flit! flit!" came to be associated with a brand of insecticide, as the campaign encouraged homeowners to quickly and easily remove pesky flies from their homes. Despite its long history, the use of "flit" declined significantly in the latter half of the 20th century, as more complex and specific words replaced it in common usage. Nonetheless, the word continues to be recognized today by many English speakers, especially those with a strong familiarity with the British Isles and their regional dialects.