flash in the pan

noun phrase

1
: a sudden spasmodic effort that accomplishes nothing
2
: one that appears promising but turns out to be disappointing or worthless

Examples of flash in the pan 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.
Most bands’ B-sides were random live tracks, extraneous remixes, or goofing off in the studio — and Oasis did engage in a bit of that — but Oasis also famously burned off a number of instant classics as B-sides as if to prove this band was definitely no flash in the pan. Jesse Adams, The Washington Examiner, 19 Sep. 2025 Asylum Cemented Disturbed’s Staying Power Asylum was another feather in Disturbed’s cap and proof the group was not a flash in the pan, as some metal-leaning acts from that era turned out to be. Hugh McIntyre, Forbes.com, 18 Sep. 2025 And yet, this is no flash in the pan. Nick Hendry, Robb Report, 6 Sep. 2025 Whether the improved results were a flash in the pan or are sustainable remains to be seen. David Moin, Footwear News, 3 Sep. 2025 Some of the biggest eyebrow-raisers, especially at quarterback, become time capsules, depicting a flash in the pan or an outlier season. Jayna Bardahl, New York Times, 31 July 2025 But while many are just a flash in the pan, the fervor for these unusual flats-meet-trainers remains at a high. Aemilia Madden, Glamour, 30 July 2025 Viewed in that light, Harris’ advisors would best serve her by convincing her that Echelon’s poll is a flash in the pan, not a sign of genuine desire for her return to the presidential conversation. Douglas Schoen, Oc Register, 18 July 2025 These women are proving that reality TV fame doesn’t have to be a flash in the pan. Kimberly Wilson, Essence, 2 July 2025

Word History

Etymology

from the firing of the priming in the pan of a flintlock musket without discharging the piece

First Known Use

1706, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of flash in the pan was in 1706

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Flash in the pan.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/flash%20in%20the%20pan. Accessed 30 Sep. 2025.

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