flail
noun
an instrument for threshing grain, consisting of a staff or handle with a freely swinging stick or bar attached to one end of it.
have been flailing
-
present perfect progressiveof flail.present perfect progressive
Used to describe an action that began in the past, has continued continuously, and is still in progress.
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.
The Hoyas have been flailing and seeking comfort in the familiar, making it seem as if they are celebrating the richness of their history.
From Washington Post ● Mar. 10, 2023
That’s why retail categories that have been flailing everywhere else—books, electronics—are booming in terminals.
From Slate ● Sep. 8, 2017
Whatever the effects and the production values, these movies have been flailing, unfunny fiascoes since “Scary Movie 2” wasted 83 minutes of our time way back in 2001.
From Seattle Times ● Apr. 12, 2013
Ever since Bakker was caught in an adultery scandal and gave Falwell custody of his empire, the two have been flailing away at each other.
From Time Magazine Archive
