flounder
verb (used without object)
to struggle with stumbling or plunging movements (usually followed by about, along, on, through, etc.).
floundered
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past participleof flounder.past participle
A verb form used in perfect and passive verb constructions and that can also function as a modifier.
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past tense formof flounder.past tense
Used to describe completed actions or previous habitual actions.
flounderverb (used without object)to struggle with stumbling or plunging movements (usually followed by about, along, on, through, etc.).
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
Attempts at diplomacy have floundered as fighting escalates on several fronts across Africa's third-largest country.
From Barron's ● Sep. 11, 2026
While Starmer floundered in the polls, Burnham agitated for change.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Jul. 20, 2026
Other U.S.-based sodium-ion startups have floundered of late.
From Los Angeles Times ● Jul. 8, 2026
The U.S. took a 9.9% equity stake in Intel last summer as it floundered.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Jun. 5, 2026
The special floundered, not knowing what to do; a variety of mute expressions crossed his face and then, turning, he shuffled out of the apartment, leaving Rick alone.
From "Do Androids Dream of Electric Sheep?" by Philip K. Dick
