Flippant
/ˈflɪp.ənt/noun
Showing a lack of seriousness; glib or disrespectfully casual.
Did you know?The word is built from a root tied to “flapping” or “fluttering,” which makes its modern meaning feel like language that won’t stay still long enough to be serious.
Etymological Timeline
Late 16th Century
English
flippant
“Originally, quick-tongued, glib, or nimble in speech”
16th Century
English
flip
“A light, smart, or pert speech or remark”
Middle English
English
flippe
“A sudden movement or a light blow; also used for quick, lively action”
Proto-Germanic
PGmc
*flappōną / *flippōną
“To flap, flutter, or move lightly and quickly”
Proto-Indo-European
PIE
*plep- / *plip-
“An imitative base suggesting flapping or fluttering movement”