I. ˈblench intransitive verb
Etymology: Middle English, to deceive, blench, from Old English blencan to deceive; akin to Old Norse blekkja to impose on
Date: 13th century
: to draw back or turn aside from lack of courage : flinch
Synonyms: see recoil
II. verb
Etymology: alteration of blanch
Date: 1813
: bleach , whiten