flip-flop

noun

ˈflip-ˌfläp How to pronounce flip-flop (audio)
Synonyms of flip-flopnext
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

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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.
The decade-long fight — including the defeat of county efforts to keep the sand open to all, flip-flopping state laws and landowner lawsuits — has left beachgoers to navigate a confusing patchwork of beach access. — Debbie Elliott, NPR, 4 Sep. 2026 For fans of traditional flip-flop sandals, the Gizeh Big Buckle Leather Sandal is a dressier, more elevated alternative. — Caroline Hughes, Travel + Leisure, 4 Sep. 2026 After nine months at sea, the sailors and Marines of the USS Abraham Lincoln are trading their cargo pants and boots for shorts and flip-flops. — Sam Winslade, NBC news, 3 Sep. 2026 My mom’s longtime favorite flip-flops have a super impressive discount today, so act fast to snap them up before summer officially comes to a close. — Clara McMahon, PEOPLE, 2 Sep. 2026 See All Example Sentences for flip-flop

Word History

First Known Use

1683, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of flip-flop was in 1683

Rhymes for flip-flop

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Browse Nearby Words

flip-flap
flip-flop
flip-flop circuit
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Cite this Entry

“Flip-flop.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/flip-flop. Accessed 7 Sep. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on flip-flop

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about flip-flop

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