1. relating to or characterized by blinking or winking; capable of blinking
Usage: used in anatomy and zoology to describe structures involved in blinking

1. present participle of nictitate; to blink or wink, especially involuntarily or repeatedly
Usage: formal or technical usage; often used in medical or zoological contexts

Examples

• The nictitating membrane in birds helps protect their eyes during flight.
• She noticed his nictitating eyelids as he struggled to stay awake.
• The reptile's nictitating membrane slid across its eye to remove dust.
• His nictitating reflex was tested by the ophthalmologist.
• The cat's nictitating eyelid appeared briefly before closing completely.