flip

Reading level: hard

Estimated CEFR level: C2 — Proficiency

Estimated from word frequency; not an official CEFR classification.

Definition

  1. noun an acrobatic feat in which the feet roll over the head (either forward or backward) and return
  2. noun hot or cold alcoholic mixed drink containing a beaten egg
  3. noun a sudden, quick movement

Etymology

Alteration of earlier fillip, from Middle English filippen (“to make a signal or sound with thumb and right forefinger, snap the fingers”), an attenuated variation of flappen (“to flap, clap, slap, strike”). Cognate with Dutch flappen (“to flap”), German flappen (“to flap”).

In classic literature

Synonyms

somersault, somerset, summersault, summerset, somersaulting

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