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)

backflipped, backflipping 

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

King of the backflip Benson Boone had the most-streamed track in the world last year with Beautiful Things - earning enough money to buy his first house - but now he's ready to move on.

From BBC

Their antics — choreographed dances, lip-synced walk-ups, backflip outfield catches — have attracted nearly 10 million followers on TikTok, almost double the combined total of the Dodgers and Angels.

From Los Angeles Times

Prof Wolfers said while Trump "chickens out from the very worst mistakes" - citing his original 'Liberation Day' levies and the threat of 50% tariffs on the EU - he doesn't backflip on everything.

From BBC

Musical guest Benson Boone backflipped before performing, “Sorry I’m Here for Someone Else” and did not do a backflip before performing “Mystical Magical.”

From Los Angeles Times

Less fortunate, however, was Texan singer d4vd, whose attempt at a backflip went disastrously wrong.

From BBC