fizzle out

Idioms and Phrases

Fail, end weakly, especially after a hopeful beginning. For example, The enthusiasm for reform has fizzled out in this state . The word fizzle dates from the early 1500s and meant “to break wind without making noise.” Later it was applied to hissing noises, such as those made by wet fireworks, and then to any endeavor that ends in disappointment. [ Colloquial ; mid-1800s]

Example Sentences

After a certain amount of growth, smaller dating app companies are likely to fizzle out or be sold to one of the major players, Helfstein said.

From Los Angeles Times

“Twisters” does chase down a few too many storylines that don’t develop into anything worthwhile, like a nefarious real estate subplot that fizzles out quickly.

From Los Angeles Times

But his days appear to be numbered with the current campaign fizzling out and widespread frustration among the fanbase.

From BBC

Leicester, however, crowd out the chance and play is switched to the right where it fizzles out.

From BBC

His wished-for war on democracy could fizzle out.

From Salon

Related Words

• deteriorate
• disappear
• end
• expire
• fail
• fall
• pass
• stop
• vanish