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

Like heels, flip-flops may be cute for vacation, but not for the plane ride to get there. —Stacey Leasca, Travel + Leisure, 12 Jan. 2026

While full platform sneakers are usually a no-go, platform flip-flops can be a go-to. —Shelby Comroe, InStyle, 10 Jan. 2026

This method depends on the fact that Earth’s magnetic field flip-flops every few hundred thousand years. —Stephanie Pappas, Scientific American, 7 Jan. 2026

The weather flip-flop looks set to continue into January, with afternoon peak temps this week approaching 80 degrees, while morning lows next weekend drop back into the 30s and 40s. —Mary Wasson, Austin American Statesman, 4 Jan. 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