fall flat

phrase

Synonyms of fall flatnext
: to produce no response or result
the joke fell flat

Examples of fall flat in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
His efforts to secure help through CARE Court have fallen flat because Cali has refused services. — Jennah Pendleton, Sacbee.com, 6 Nov. 2026 The Republican redistricting plan fell flat in Alabama, Florida and Texas. — Arkansas Online, 5 Nov. 2026 On Housewives, story lines grow tired and repetitive, and attempts to shake up the dynamics inevitably fall flat as the show reverts back to a familiar staleness. — Louis Peitzman, Vulture, 4 Nov. 2026 The drums wind up lacking, with a kick, rim shots, and cymbals that all fall flat. — Mark Knapp, PC Magazine, 3 Nov. 2026 See All Example Sentences for fall flat

Word History

First Known Use

1841, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of fall flat was in 1841

Rhymes for fall flat

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Browse Nearby Words

fallfish
fall flat
fall for
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Fall flat.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/fall%20flat. Accessed 7 Nov. 2026.

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