Tip someone the wink

Origin of: Tip someone the wink

Tip someone the wink

To tip someone the wink is defined by the OED as a glance or significant movement of the eye, often accompanied by a nod, expressing command, assent, invitation, or the like. It can also mean to give someone inside or confidential information. To tip or give someone the wink or to get the wink, all date from c.1500.