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

Recent Examples on the Web In flip-flops and shorts, one of the finest soldiers in a resistance force battling the military junta in Myanmar showed off his weaponry. Paul Mozur Adam Ferguson, New York Times, 4 May 2024 Once inside, all members will be met with the rules typical of these businesses: no photography, no use of laptops or iPads, and no ripped denim, baseball hats, sandals, or flip-flops, according to Eater. Tori Latham, Robb Report, 2 May 2024 Not-Your-Average Black Sandals While a plain black slide or flip-flop is crucial for summer, there’s always room for a trendier pair in my footwear rotation. Madeline Fass, Vogue, 2 May 2024 For those who can’t go a few steps without unintentionally flinging off a flip-flop, slingback sandals are a summer must-have — just ask Mandy Moore. Kayla Blanton, Peoplemag, 2 May 2024 Loose shoes — like, flip-flops ― are a no-no, and so is going barefoot. Frank Witsil, Detroit Free Press, 2 May 2024 The shade also instantly elevates any style of sandal, from flip-flop heels to chunky flats. Nuria Luis, Glamour, 19 Apr. 2024 This flip-flop in policy is what has been driving markets down in recent weeks, according to Landsberg. Will Daniel, Fortune, 19 Apr. 2024 Shoppers style the knit dress with everything from flip-flops to heels for both casual and dressy occasions. Lauren Taylor, Southern Living, 16 Apr. 2024

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'flip-flop.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

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

Dictionary Entries Near flip-flop

Cite this Entry

“Flip-flop.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/flip-flop. Accessed 9 May. 2024.

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