1
: the sound or motion of something flapping loosely
2
a
: a backward handspring
b
: a sudden reversal (as of policy or strategy)
3
: a usually electronic device or a circuit (as in a computer) capable of assuming either of two stable states
4
: a rubber sandal loosely fastened to the foot by a thong
flip-flop intransitive verb

Examples of flip-flop in a Sentence

the governor's frequent flip-flops would indicate that she has no core beliefs
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Who in the administration knew about Trump’s latest tariff flip-flop ahead of time? Michael Hiltzik, Los Angeles Times, 29 May 2025 To the generation that exclusively wore spongy thong sandals in dormitory showers, the concept of high-fashion flip-flops might sound like an oxymoron. Sam Reed, Glamour, 29 May 2025 For anyone who thought flip-flops were off the table with PF, these change the game. Lauren Paige Richeson, Health, 29 May 2025 This summer, luxury brands such as The Row, Miu Miu, Versace and Dior have all released different versions of the humble flip-flop with various heel heights. Laia Farran Graves, Forbes.com, 28 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for flip-flop

Word History

First Known Use

1600, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of flip-flop was in 1600

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Cite this Entry

“Flip-flop.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/flip-flop. Accessed 3 Jun. 2025.

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