THE SECRET LANGUAGE OF WINKING

Winking, the rapid closing and opening of one eye to convey a message, is a universal form of non-verbal communication which carries a rich history of historical and cultural significance. First mentioned in the bible, it has been found in literature and art in ancient Greece and Rome and in numerous cultures throughout the ages. During medieval times, some believed winking to have the sinister power of casting spells or engaging in witchcraft. From Shakespearean plays to classic novels, winking has been used to add subtle layers of meaning to the narratives. With the passage of time and societal norms, the meaning behind winking has changed. Today, virtual winking has found its place in pop culture and everyday communication on social media platforms with their emphasis on emojis and symbols.

Although seemingly a simple act, winking requires the coordinated contraction and relaxation of as many as 49 muscles. Contrary to popular belief, not everyone can wink. Some people can wink with one eye but not the other. When we wink, the eyebrow above the non-winking eye is always pulled higher on the face; it is physically difficult to keep the eyebrows level. When associated with certain medical conditions, winking can occur unintentionally. Some people wink almost subconsciously, especially under stress.

This simple eye gesture has diverse meanings and conveys certain emotions or intentions, which are open to various interpretations. Navigating the subtle nuances of winking requires an awareness of cultural norms and social cues, because it can be easy to misinterpret, leading to all kinds of embarrassing situations and misunderstandings.

Winking has different interpretations in different countries and cultures. The act of winking or twitching of the eyelids is sometimes linked to superstition. In some countries winking signifies an impending auspicious or inauspicious event, depending on the winking eye involved. It may be considered too forward or suggestive in conservative cultures. Winking may be used as a parental gesture of subtle dismissal towards a child to tell them to leave the room if guests are present.

Winking might suggest a feeling of friendliness, affection, or greeting. In certain cases, depending upon the situation and associated body language, it might also signal romantic or sexual interest, which is the common interpretation in romance movies.

Without needing words, a wink can sometimes convey a feeling of mutual trust between two people, particularly in difficult situations. A friendly wink between close friends or loved ones can be all that is needed to imply sympathy, emotional agreement and solidarity, a subtle gesture which says: “you can depend or rely on me”.

In a social gathering, a wink often serves as a playful, light-hearted gesture, conveying a shared joke. Sometimes a particular person is targeted and teased, which is meant to be taken with good humour if it is accompanied by a wink. The wink can let the person know not to take the teasing too seriously. In comedy shows a well-timed wink can work to let the audience in on a joke.

A person may wink to send a message that there is something unspoken behind what is being said, something that he is reluctant to express verbally. Without giving the details away, he is hinting that there is a hidden motive, and that the listener needs to be aware that all is not as it seems. It may also be a signal between two people that what a third person has said is not credible.

When exaggerating or lying, a person will often wink to let the other person know he or she is telling a “little white lie”. People who tell a lie without the intention of it being detected will usually not accompany it with a wink.

Responding to a wink also carries various interpretations depending on the situation and cultural environment. It may be appropriate to wink back, smile, nod, look puzzled or make no response at all.

Animal lovers believe that the winking of dogs and cats has meaning. When a dog winks, it is thought to be a sign of submissiveness or respect, depending on the relationship between dog and owner.

A cat’s wink is one of the highest compliments one can receive. It is their way of saying “I trust you and I’m comfortable with you”.