flail 1 of 2

Definition of flailnext

flail

2 of 2

noun

Example Sentences

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.
Recent Examples of flail
Verb
As the two bond in short order, our previously flailing hero shapes up very quickly indeed, soon shedding his substance abuse problems and entering a healthy relationship with dreamy social worker Oscar (Diego Calva). Guy Lodge, Variety, 16 May 2026 On The Comeback, the flailing sitcom actress Valerie Cherish (played by Lisa Kudrow) is accustomed to sacrificing her dignity for the spotlight. Caroline Framke, The Atlantic, 14 May 2026 Colorado spent six innings flailing away against Skenes before Mickey Moniak's sinking line-drive single to left-center with one out in the seventh. CBS News, 13 May 2026 Some fans said the actor instead resembled an early-PlayStation-era cutscene character who robotically flails his limbs upon impact. James Hibberd, HollywoodReporter, 13 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for flail
Recent Examples of Synonyms for flail
Verb
  • Since most butterflies live a short time, fluttering between colorful flowers for a few weeks before dying, a few rare exceptions have stumped scientists.
    Ashley Strickland, CNN Money, 19 June 2026
  • Dozens of butterflies, likely variable checkerspots with hints of yellow and red on their wings, fluttered all around.
    Jaclyn Cosgrove, Los Angeles Times, 18 June 2026
Verb
  • The menu features Mediterranean delicacies, starting with mezze like hummus, muhammara (a walnut and red pepper dip) and whipped feta spreads.
    Connie Ogle June 19, Miami Herald, 19 June 2026
  • Ospreay struck Strickland, who responded by whipping a chain at him.
    Rob Wolkenbrod, Forbes.com, 18 June 2026
Noun
  • For decades, the Fifth Fleet has been the U.S.’s principle bludgeon to ensure freedom of navigation through the strait.
    Brian Bennett, Time, 15 Apr. 2026
  • Iran practices honest bludgeon work.
    Voice of the People, New York Daily News, 4 Apr. 2026
Verb
  • As with other members of the poplar family such as quaking aspen, the part of the tree that attaches the leaf to the branch is several inches long, causing leaves to flap rapidly from side to side when the wind blows.
    Sheryl DeVore, Chicago Tribune, 10 June 2026
  • When a hummingbird hovers, their wings can flap up to 70 times per second, according to the Audubon Society!
    Ray Petelin, CBS News, 6 June 2026
Verb
  • In fact, some are doing little to hide their skepticism – and, in some cases, outright frustration – with the agreement.
    Joey Garrison, USA Today, 19 June 2026
  • So my whole upbringing was hiding and carrying this huge weight and secret.
    Carly Thomas, HollywoodReporter, 19 June 2026
Noun
  • Rick Valente, a patient who visits a third-floor doctor's office several times a month, said he has been forced to climb the stairs despite relying on a cane for stability.
    Bri Buckley, CBS News, 18 June 2026
  • As for your cane, there’s a place for that at the door.
    Jon Blistein, Rolling Stone, 17 June 2026
Verb
  • On his left, slashing toward the box, was Messi and Martinez found him beautifully.
    Kyle Feldscher, CNN Money, 17 June 2026
  • The moves are part of the effort by the team of new BBC director general Matt Brittin, a former Google top executive, to slash costs across operations and functions.
    Georg Szalai, HollywoodReporter, 17 June 2026
Noun
  • Judges, attorneys, guardians and other court professionals have repeatedly used custody as a cudgel, according to some family court attorneys and advocates, punishing parents for their conduct by limiting their access to their children.
    Shira Moolten, Sun Sentinel, 4 June 2026
  • Linda wields her absolute power over Bradley like a cudgel, exploiting his helplessness to emotionally abuse and manipulate him.
    Brianna Zigler, Entertainment Weekly, 21 May 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Flail.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/flail. Accessed 20 Jun. 2026.

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