flunk

UK: flʌŋk | US: flʌŋk

Definition

  1. vt./vi. to fail an exam or course

  2. vt. to give a failing grade to someone

  3. n. an instance of failing

Structure

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Etymology

The word flunk emerged in 19th-century American English as college slang. Its exact origin is unclear, but it may imitate the sound of something falling flat (like a failed attempt) or derive from dialectal words like flink (to back down). Unlike many academic terms with Latin/Greek roots, flunk reflects a playful, informal attitude toward failure.

Examples

  1. He flunked the chemistry test despite studying all night.

  2. The professor warned she would flunk anyone who plagiarized.

  3. "I can't afford to flunk this class," she muttered.

  4. His flunk in math surprised everyone.

  5. The exam was so hard that half the class flunked.