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.
This European surge isn't just a flash in the pan. Robert Daugherty, Forbes.com, 7 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 In our minds, the relative stability of cybersecurity stocks amid market turbulence is part of a broader, long-term trend rather than a flash in the pan. Paulina Likos, CNBC, 18 June 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 9 Sep. 2025.

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