Flip-Flop
/ˈflɪpˌflɒp/noun
A casual sandal secured by a thong between the toes, or a sudden reversal in position or opinion.
Did you know?The phrase is an imitative reduplication, and its later political meaning grew from the idea of something literally flipping back and forth—an English example of sound becoming meaning.
Etymological Timeline
Late 19th Century
English
flip-flop
“An imitative word for a repeated flapping or slapping sound; later also used for a thong sandal.”
20th Century
English
flip-flop
“A sudden reversal in opinion, stance, or direction.”
Middle English
English
flip
“To strike or move with a quick light motion; also a sudden movement or toss.”
Middle English
English
flop
“To fall or move heavily and loosely with a dull sound.”
Old English
English
floppian
“To flap or strike lightly; to move with a repeated flapping motion.”