backflip

[ bak-flip ]

noun

1. a backward somersault.
2. a dive executed by somersaulting backward.
3. Informal. a complete reversal in attitude or policy:

   Some committee members did sudden backflips, urging spending cuts instead of expanded programs.

verb (used without object)

, back·flipped, back·flip·ping.

1. to perform a backflip:

   She backflipped off a bucking horse.

Word History and Origins

Origin of backflip¹

First recorded in 1930–35; back ² + flip ¹

Example Sentences

All of a sudden, Bowie did a giant backflip while letting out an awful yelp.

From Outside Online

These backflips into existing Disney IP have become a frustrating cinematic experiment.

From The Daily Beast

The pandemic has business owners doing backflips to stay afloat.

From Voice of San Diego

That backflip in the performance of “Whistle” was really him.

From The Daily Beast

Some calculating pol, realizing that his position had become unpopular or untenable, would execute a backflip off the high board.

From The Daily Beast

This is most obvious when expensive forms of trash are forced to backflip until they obviate their standard uses.

From The Daily Beast