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

Leaving profits on the table protects the brand’s reputation while it tries to put flippers out of business.

From The Wall Street Journal

While foreclosure filings of distressed properties—the kind flippers look for—were up 17% in the third quarter of 2025 versus the same time last year, these investors continue to face major challenges.

From The Wall Street Journal

They raise part of their bodies above the water, open their mouths and move their front flippers in an excited pattern.

From Science Daily

The creature had a small head and long flippers and a large, streamlined shell.

From Literature

Otter flipper tags are designed to last an animal’s lifespan, but research shows they don’t always last so long.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• branch
• rod
• wing