flip-flop
flip
flɪp
flip
flop
flɑp
flaap
/flˈɪpflˈɒp/

Definition & Meaning of "flip-flop"in English

Flip-flop
01

a backless sandal, usually made of rubber or plastic, with a V-shaped strap between the big toe and the one next to it

flip-flop definition and meaning

What is a "flip-flop"?

A flip-flop is a type of open-toed footwear consisting of a flat sole, typically made of rubber or foam, held onto the foot by a Y-shaped strap that runs between the toes. They are lightweight, easy to slip on and off, and are popular for casual wear, especially in warm weather or at the beach. Flip-flops can come in a wide range of colors and patterns, and some may even have additional features such as arch support or massaging footbeds for added comfort. While they may not offer the same level of support or protection as other types of shoes, flip-flops are a convenient and stylish option for many people.

Examples
She wore a pair of colorful flip-flops to the beach, enjoying the warm sand between her toes.
02

a backward somersault

Grammatical Information
animacy status
inanimate
Composition
Compound
countable
plural form
flip-flops
03

an electronic circuit that can assume either of two stable states

04

a decision to reverse an earlier decision

05

a bisexual person

Slang

What is the origin of the term "flip-flop" and how is it used?

Flip-flop is a slang term for a person who is sexually attracted to both men and women. The term appeared in mid-20th-century English and comes from the idea of "flipping" between two options, highlighting attraction to multiple sexes. It was mostly used within queer communities as a casual, descriptive label, though it can sound playful or slightly teasing. Today it is rare and may be confusing outside historical or subcultural contexts.

Examples
He joked about being a flip-flop while describing his dating life.
06

a person who alternates between top and bottom roles during sex

Slang

What is the origin of the term "flip-flop" and how is it used?

Flip-flop refers to a person who alternates between the receptive ("bottom") and insertive ("top") roles during sexual activity. This meaning also arose in mid-20th-century gay slang, using the simple metaphor of flipping positions. It is primarily descriptive rather than insulting, though tone and audience matter: outside knowledgeable or accepting circles, it can sound crude or overly intimate.

Examples
He 's a flip-flop, sometimes topping, sometimes bottoming.
to flip-flop
01

to change one's opinion, decision, or position back and forth repeatedly or suddenly

Grammatical Information
Composition
Compound
action verb
regular
present tense
flip-flop
3rd person singular
flip-flops
present participle
flip-flopping
past simple
flip-flopped
past participle
flip-flopped
Examples
The politician tends to flip-flop on important issues depending on public opinion.
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