flunk

[ fluhngk ]

verb (used without object)

1. to fail in a course or examination.

verb (used with object)

1. to fail to get a passing mark in:

   to flunk math.

2. to give a failing grade to; remove (a student) as unqualified from a school or course.

noun

1. a failure, as in a course or examination.

verb phrase

1. to fail and be unable to continue in:

   He flunked out of flight school.

flunk

/ flʌŋk /

verb

1. to fail or cause to fail to reach the required standard in (an examination, course, etc)
2. intrfoll byout to be dismissed from a school or college through failure in examinations

noun

1. a low grade below the pass standard

Other Words From

• un·flunked adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of flunk¹

1815–25, Americanism; perhaps akin to flinch ¹, funk ¹

Word History and Origins

Origin of flunk¹

C19: perhaps from flinch ¹+ funk ¹

Example Sentences

He won admission to MIT, but flunked out due to a lack of social or medical support.

From Los Angeles Times

If the students disobey and miss class for abortion care, the filing continues, the professors should be allowed to flunk students.

From Salon

“Or religious favoritism. As a judge, and certainly, as a Supreme Court justice, you have that duty. Justice Alito flunks the test and flunks it badly.”

From Salon

But Nguyen “flunked out,” leading his parents to kick him out of their home.

From Los Angeles Times

A landmark work that explores and exposes mainstream Hollywood’s conjoined twin, the adult film industry, where those who flunked out of the proper movie business struggle to become X-rated superstars in the San Fernando Valley.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• drop out