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

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
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.
But the public understanding of homesteading as a political act has flip-flopped across the aisle since the 19th century. Scottie Andrew, CNN Money, 30 Mar. 2025 Jeans, shorts, t-shirts, flip-flops, and tank tops are still likely to be off-limits at this affair (unless clearly stated within the dress code guidelines). Shelby Wax, Vogue, 29 Mar. 2025 In fact, more than $4 million was invested in the art, which ranges from oil paintings of vintage vessels to a piano keyboard made from wood and a hanging rhino piece constructed from old flip-flops. Demarco Williams, Forbes.com, 28 Mar. 2025 Unlike Sánchez, Kardashian leaned into normcore with a pair of $450 flip-flops and a gray sweatsuit while toting around two separate iPhones. Emily Tannenbaum, Glamour, 28 Mar. 2025 See All Example Sentences for flip-flop

Word History

First Known Use

1600, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of flip-flop was in 1600

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Cite this Entry

“Flip-flop.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/flip-flop. Accessed 3 Apr. 2025.

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