How Do You Spell FLIMSY?

Pronunciation: [flˈɪmzi] (IPA)

The spelling of the word "flimsy" is not phonetically straightforward. It is pronounced /ˈflɪmzi/, with the stress on the first syllable. The letter "f" represents the /f/ sound while "li" represents the /lɪ/ sound. The letter "m" represents the /m/ sound and "s" represents the /z/ sound. The final "y" is added to the root word "flim" to form an adjective. The word describes something that is weak or thin and is often used to criticize the quality of material or construction.

FLIMSY Meaning and Definition

  1. Flimsy is an adjective that describes something or someone as delicate, weak, or lacking in strength or substance. It refers to objects or materials that are thin, insubstantial, and easily damaged or broken.

    In the literal sense, flimsy refers to items that are made of thin or lightweight materials, such as flimsy clothing, flimsy paper, or flimsy shelter. These objects tend to lack durability or sturdiness, and may be easily torn, crumpled, or destroyed. Flimsy can also describe structures that are temporary or not built to last, like a flimsy tent or a flimsy wooden frame.

    In a figurative sense, flimsy can be used to describe arguments, theories, or explanations that are weak, shaky, or unconvincing. It implies that the reasoning or evidence behind these claims lacks strength or solidity. Similarly, flimsy can describe a person's character, indicating a lack of resilience, substance, or determination in their actions or personality.

    The term flimsy often carries a negative connotation, suggesting a lack of quality, reliability, or credibility. It implies that the item, concept, or individual described as flimsy is inadequate or easily dismissed. Overall, flimsy signifies fragility, weakness, or inferiority, whether in terms of physicality, construction, reasoning, or character.

  2. Without solidity, strength, or force; thin or loose of texture; shallow.

    Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.

Top Common Misspellings for FLIMSY *

* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.

Other Common Misspellings for FLIMSY

Etymology of FLIMSY

The word "flimsy" originated in the early 18th century from the English slang term "flim-flam", which meant to deceive or trick someone. "Flim-flam" was derived from the Dutch word "vlam", meaning flame or blaze. Over time, "flim-flam" evolved into the word "flimsy", retaining its original connotation of something deceitful or fraudulent. Eventually, the term extended its meaning to describe anything that is insubstantial, weak, or lacking in solidity.

Similar spelling words for FLIMSY

Plural form of FLIMSY is FLIMSIES

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