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

Beijing is also well aware that American democracy is inherently prone to flip-flops and that the hard-line Washington consensus on China is likely to return with the next election. —Michael Schuman, The Atlantic, 26 Jan. 2026

Pack non-slip shoes with good grip on the bottom, like this pair of Lavau flip-flops. —Kelsey Glennon, Travel + Leisure, 26 Jan. 2026

This flip-flop already made people question AI platform vendors’ transparency. —Ron Schmelzer, Forbes.com, 23 Jan. 2026

In the bathroom were Acqua di Parma toiletries and a shower tiled with black stone; the closet had flip-flops and a tote for pool days; and the balcony had a small table and two chairs. —Matt Ortile, Condé Nast Traveler, 22 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