Flip Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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flip

[flɪp ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Verb}

coin flipping

To toss a coin into the air and allow it to fall, to determine a random outcome.

Synonyms

flip over, throw, toss, tumble.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
flip	Used for flipping something quickly, typically with a small object or a switch. He flipped the coin to decide who would go first She flipped the light switch to turn on the lights
toss	Used when making a light or casual throw, often with short distance or less force. She tossed the keys to him across the room He tossed the salad with dressing
throw	Used when a forceful or deliberate act is made to cast something through the air, often covering a distance. He threw the ball to his friend in the outfield She threw the crumpled paper into the trash can
tumble	Used when describing something rolling or falling in a disorderly or uncontrolled way. The kitten tumbled down the stairs while playing The clothes tumbled in the dryer
flip over	Used when turning something over completely, such as a pancake or a card. She flipped over the pancake to cook the other side He flipped over the paper to check the answers on the back

Examples of usage

I will flip a coin to decide who goes first.
She flipped the coin and it landed on heads.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

informal

A somersault, especially in gymnastics.

Synonyms

roll, somersault, tumble.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
flip	To refer to turning over an object quickly using your fingers. She flipped the light switch He flipped through the pages of the book
somersault	Used for describing a complete 360-degree turn in the air or on the ground, often in gymnastics or acrobatics. The gymnast performed a perfect somersault The child attempted a somersault but ended up falling
tumble	To describe an uncontrolled or chaotic fall, often involving rolling or bouncing. He took a tumble down the stairs The cat tumbled off the couch while playing
roll	Commonly describing a continuous circular motion or movement along a surface. The ball started to roll down the hill The dog loves to roll in the grass

Examples of usage

She performed a perfect flip during her routine.
The gymnast executed a series of flips in her floor routine.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Pop Culture

The term gained popularity in skateboarding and gymnastics for spectacular tricks involving rapid flips.
In 1991, 'flip' became a hit song for the band 'The Sweet' highlighting playful attitudes like flipping opinions.
Television shows frequently use 'flip' in titles or themes, emphasizing transformation, like 'Flip or Flop' focused on home renovations.

Science

In physics, 'flip' relates to angular motion, describing how objects change orientation under certain forces.
Biologically, some animals can 'flip' themselves to evade predators, showcasing agility and speed.
Researchers study 'flip' in the context of DNA, as certain sequences may 'flip' their structure to regulate gene expression.

Psychology

Flipping a coin is often used in decision-making as a way to resolve uncertainty with randomness.
Humans sometimes 'flip' their opinions or attitudes in response to social influence or peer pressure.
Cognitive psychologists have studied how people 'flip' their mindset from fixed to growth, showing resilience in learning.

Sports

In gymnastics, a 'flip' generally refers to performing a backward or forward somersault in the air.
Cheerleaders often incorporate flips in their routines to add excitement and demonstrate skill.
'Flip' is also used in baseball to describe a quick catch, where players turn the ball over sharply to the pitcher.

Origin of 'flip'

Main points about word origin

The word 'flip' comes from the 14th-century term 'flappen,' meaning to strike suddenly.
In the 19th century, the word evolved to include meanings related to turning over or tossing.
The verb can also mean to change suddenly, as in 'flip a switch' or 'flip a decision'.

The word 'flip' has a diverse history, with origins in Old English, Dutch, and Low German. It has evolved over time to encompass meanings related to quick and sudden movements, such as flipping a coin or performing a flip in gymnastics. The use of 'flip' to describe a coin toss dates back to the mid-19th century. In modern times, 'flip' is commonly used in casual language to convey actions involving rotation or sudden change.

See also: flippancy, flippant, flippantly, flipper.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranked #11,287, this word falls into high-advanced vocabulary. It appears less frequently but is valuable for expressing precise meanings in specific contexts.

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