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

Footwear standouts include cherry-red flip-flops and a sleek satin mule. —Laura Jackson, Vogue, 31 Mar. 2026

This type of flip-flopping leads to a serious loss of credibility for this mayor and his administration. —Voice Of The People, New York Daily News, 31 Mar. 2026

Investors seemed tired of his flip-flopping rhetoric on the war, and have started paying attention instead directly to the signal of Israel continuing to strike Iran, and vice versa. —Eva Roytburg, Fortune, 29 Mar. 2026

Wear sturdy boots and loose-fitting long pants and do not wear sandals or flip-flops in brushy areas. —Laylan Connelly, Oc Register, 26 Mar. 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