Flip
/flɪp/noun
To turn or move with a quick, sudden motion; also to throw or change direction abruptly.
Did you know?Flip is an English sound-symbolic word, and its sharp, explosive feel helped it spread into meanings like flipping a coin, flipping out, and even flip as slang for a quick, sassy movement.
Etymological Timeline
16th Century
English
flip
“A quick, light blow or sudden movement; later also a sudden turn or toss.”
16th–17th Century
English
flip
“Likely formed as an expressive imitation of a sharp, brisk motion or sound.”
17th Century
English
flip
“Used for a sudden jerk or toss, especially in informal speech.”
19th Century
English
flip
“Expanded to mean to turn over rapidly, toss, or reverse position.”
Modern English
English
flip
“To turn over, toss, reverse, or change abruptly; also used in many slang and idiomatic senses.”
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