flipper

American  

[flip-er] / ˈflɪp ər /

noun

1. a broad, flat limb, as of a seal or whale, especially adapted for swimming.

2. Also called fin.  one of a pair of paddlelike devices, usually of rubber, worn on the feet as an aid in scuba diving and swimming.

3. Theater. a narrow flat hinged or attached at right angles to a larger flat.

4. Slang. the hand.

5. someone or something that flips.

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flipper British  

/ ˈflɪpə /

noun

1. the flat broad limb of seals, whales, penguins, and other aquatic animals, specialized for swimming

2. Also called: fin.  (often plural) either of a pair of rubber paddle-like devices worn on the feet as an aid in swimming, esp underwater

3. cricket a ball bowled with backspin imparted by the action of the bowler's wrist

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flipper Scientific  

/ flĭp′ər /

1. A wide, flat limb adapted for swimming, found on aquatic animals such as whales, seals, and sea turtles. Flippers evolved from legs.

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Etymology

Origin of flipper

First recorded in 1815–25; flip ¹ + -er ¹

Example Sentences

“The entangled line severely damaged a front flipper, cutting off blood supply,” Dr. Lance Adams, the aquarium’s director of veterinary services, said in a statement.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 9, 2026

Formally known as CM2502, Porkchop got her nickname when she chowed down shortly after losing her front right flipper, which was severely constricted by fishing line.

From Los Angeles Times • Feb. 27, 2026

Under a blazing sun, the green sea turtle thwapped the surface of the San Gabriel River with her sole front flipper as aquarium staffers gripped her shell.

From Los Angeles Times • Feb. 27, 2026

"I picked it up and thought I saw a movement in one flipper, so I carried it back to the campsite".

From BBC • Feb. 10, 2026

When it turned I reached for its hind flipper, but as soon as I touched it I recoiled in horror.

From "Life of Pi" by Yann Martel

Related Words

• branch
• rod
• wing