flint - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
flint Word Meanings
- a hard type of stone used to make fire
- a very hard type of rock
- something that is tough or unyielding
flint Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
flint Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/flɪnt/
US
/flɪnt/
flint Word Etymology
Root: flint (Old English 'flint', related to Old High German 'flins' which means 'a stone'); Origin: Old English → Middle English → Modern English; Memory Image: Imagine striking a flint stone to create sparks that light a fire, symbolizing resilience and strength.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputReal Context
Flint is a noun for a hard stone that, when struck against steel, produces sparks to start a fire. It can refer to the literal rock found in chalky soils, and in geology to a fine-grained, hard rock type. In metaphorical use, flint describes something or someone tough, resilient, or unyielding, as in a mind like flint or a flinty resolve. The word evokes images of ancient toolmaking, fire-making, and survival, and it often carries connotations of precision, practicality, and resistance under pressure.
Usage Reminders
- Keep fire-starting context in mind
- Don't confuse flint with steel or steel-based fire starters
- Note the metaphorical sense is about toughness, not aggression
- Flint often implies precision and grit under pressure
- Use flint for sharp, concise descriptions, not flippant ones
Common Misconceptions
- Flint is just another hard rock like granite or quartz.
- Flint naturally produces fire on contact without striking steel.
- All hard, cold personalities are described as flinty in everyday speech.
- Flint always refers to someone aggressive or hostile.
- Flint and flintlock are the same thing.
Thinking Differences
English speakers often picture flint as a symbol of practicality and rugged resilience, blending concrete rock imagery with a stubborn-but-smart mindset. Learners may overextend the metaphor to mean coldness or aggression or confuse it with other hard rocks.
Learning Tips
- Picture a spark when you hear flint and imagine starting a campfire.
- Pair flint with steel to recall the spark mechanism.
- Use the metaphor with careful tone (not always harsh).
- Compare with other hard rocks to contrast meanings.
- Practice short sentences: flint + adjective (flinty resolve).
- Review etymology to remember historical fire-making.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of 'flint'?
A.A measure of weight.
B.A type of hard stone used to produce sparks.
C.A type of fabric.
D.A small insect.
Step 2: Usage
Choose the sentence that uses the word 'flint' correctly.
A.She wore a beautiful dress made of flint.
B.The flint of his car broke down yesterday.
C.He struck the flint against steel to start a fire.
D.The children played with a flint toy.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is most similar to 'flint'?
A.Stone
B.Quartz
C.Fire
D.Spark
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'flint'?
A.Water
B.Paper
C.Fire
D.Wood
Step 5: Mastery
Can you think of a real-life scenario involving flint?
A.Reading a book in a library.
B.A camping trip where starting a fire was important.
C.Going for a swim in a pool.
D.Cooking dinner at home.
Related Listening
🔥 Advanced
Want to practice more words?
Download LexiTalk app for personalized learning experience
Download App