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flip-flop

flip-flop

26 2.5
An open sandal held on the foot by a strap between the big toe and the second toe
  • noun
  • /ˈflɪpˌflɑp/
translation icon : chancla
  • She wore her favorite flip-flops to the beach because they are comfortable and easy to take off.
  • wear flip-flops

And I'm in flip flops and shorts and AT shirt.

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Examples

  • Oh, that and bring rubber flip-flops to the shower.

  • Shoot, Momma, even I know not to go to the beach without flip-flops or sandals!

    Fiction book (2000)
  • These flip-flops are bad for your feet.

  • I told you not to wear your flip-flops!

  • You owe me a pair of flip-flops.

  • A pair of sandals or flip-flops is essential for any holiday, long or short.

    Blog text (24)
  • Henderson grabbed his flip-flops and stuck them on his feet.

    Fiction book (2002)
  • Jayne kicks off her flip-flops and stands in May's sun.

    Fiction book (1992)
  • She's wearing a size small SpongeBob shirt with flip flops and shorts.

  • I've got flip-flops on!

Synonyms

sandal
vsflip-flop
94 1.0

A light shoe where straps hold the sole to the foot

is narrower and uses a strap between the big toe and second toe
thong
vsflip-flop
  • Australian
6 4.4

A flat sandal held to the foot by a strap between the toes

is similar but may include a back or not

How Casual

flip-flop
26 2.5
sandal
94 1.0
sneaker
  • US
214 1.3
loafer
27 3.2
dress
333 1.0

Surface Forms

flip-flop singular
flip-flops plural

Morphology

flip-flop = flip + flop (semi-transparent) = flip + flop

The name of the sandal comes from the sound the sole makes ('flip' and 'flop'), so the relation to footwear is indirect and idiomatic.

Etymology

Flip-flop for the sandal comes from the quick slapping sound flip and flop make when you walk. So flip-flops are the open sandals named for that sound.