Definition of flinches:
(v) :
(intransitive) To make a sudden, involuntary movement in response to a (usually negative) stimulus; to cringe; to blench.
(n) :
A reflexive jerking away.
(v) :
To dodge (a question), to avoid an unpleasant task or duty
(n) :
(croquet) The slipping of the foot from a ball, when attempting to give a tight croquet.
(v) :
(croquet) To let the foot slip from a ball, when attempting to give a tight croquet.
(v) :
Alternative form of flense. [To strip the blubber or skin from, as from a whale, seal, etc.]