flinch

Short definition from Wiktionary

Noun

1. 1
   A reflexive jerking away.
2. 2
   The slipping of the foot from a ball, when attempting to give a tight croquet.

Verb

1. 1
   To make a sudden, involuntary movement in response to a (usually negative) stimulus; to cringe; to blench.
2. 2
   To dodge (a question), to avoid an unpleasant task or duty
3. 3
   To let the foot slip from a ball, when attempting to give a tight croquet.
4. 4
   Alternative form of flense.