flip
UK: flɪp | US: flɪp
v. to toss or turn something quickly and lightly
v. to change position or direction suddenly
n. a quick, light toss or movement
adj. (informal) flippant or disrespectful
The word "flip" likely originated as an onomatopoeic term, mimicking the sound or motion of something being tossed or turned quickly. It first appeared in English in the 16th century, possibly influenced by similar-sounding words like "flap" or "flick." Over time, it evolved to describe both physical actions (e.g., flipping a coin) and metaphorical shifts (e.g., flipping opinions). Its informal adjectival use ("flip attitude") emerged later, reflecting a light, careless tone.
She flipped the pancake with a quick wrist motion.
The car flipped over after hitting the barrier.
He flipped through the pages of the book impatiently.
Her flip remark offended the audience.
The switch flips automatically when the temperature rises.