flip-flop

noun

ˈflip-ˌfläp 

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

Synonyms of flip-flop

• reversal
• change of heart

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

These stylish flip-flops will take you from cobblestoned streets to a beach club to a beautiful, five-course SeaDream dinner. —Amanda Eyre Ward, Travel + Leisure, 13 Apr. 2026

Pair it with wide-leg jeans and flats for the office, wear it with a skirt and flip-flops come summer—the styling opportunities are endless with this classic polo. —Kaitlin Clapinski, InStyle, 7 Apr. 2026

For example, the reliable Old Navy flip-flops are still a go-to for a reason --they're affordable, easy and perfect for everything from pool days to quick errands. —Casey Delbasso, ABC News, 7 Apr. 2026

That’s oodles of swimsuits, sunglasses, flip-flops and bags full of tiny travel lotions. —Beth Collums, AJC.com, 3 Apr. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1683, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for flip-flop

• atop
• backdrop
• backstop
• bebop
• blacktop
• bookshop
• clatsop
• desktop
• eavesdrop
• estop
• hardtop
• hilltop