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

Ahmed wore a black T-shirt, flip-flops, and navy-blue gym shorts; his eyes darted around constantly. —Elizabeth Flock, New Yorker, 23 Feb. 2026

The company sells flip-flops and related items online and through retailers. —Brian Womack, Dallas Morning News, 23 Feb. 2026

Seemingly overnight, flip-flops went from public enemy number one to the most coveted shoe style on the market. —Kelsey Stiegman, Glamour, 23 Feb. 2026

Palomar, Ocean Blue, Onda, Cagney’s, Le Bistro and Haven restaurants will no longer allow shorts or flip-flops, according to the cruise line's website. —Jessica Mekles, FOXNews.com, 21 Feb. 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