Flop

Verb

Definition: To fall or collapse heavily and suddenly, especially with a dull sound.

Synonyms: Crash, Drop, Collapse

Antonyms: Rise, Soar, Succeed

Examples:
  • The tired boxer flopped to the ground after being knocked out.
  • The kite started to flop as the wind died down.
Mnemonics:
  • Imagine a fish flopping around on dry land with a dull sound.

Noun

Definition: A complete failure, especially a theatrical production, movie or song.

Synonyms: Failure, Dud, Flop show

Antonyms: Hit, Success, Blockbuster

Examples:
  • The movie was a flop at the box office, earning only a fraction of its budget.
  • The play was such a flop that it closed after just one week.
Mnemonics:
  • Imagine a movie poster with the word "flop" written on it, indicating failure.

Etymology:

Origin:

The word "flop" originated around the early 19th century in English, possibly as an onomatopoeic word mimicking a sound of something falling heavily.

Historical Usage:

The word has been used to describe various types of failures, especially in the entertainment industry.

Related Idioms:

Idiom:

"Flop like a fish"

Explanation:

Refers to someone who is moving or behaving in a clumsy or uncoordinated manner.

Misconceptions:

Misconception:

Using "flop" as a noun to refer to a success or hit.

Explanation:

"Flop" specifically refers to a failure or a complete letdown.

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