flipside
UK[ˈflɪpsaɪd]US[ˈflɪpsaɪd]
n
The less obvious or less favorable aspect of a situation or issue; the reverse side.
n
The side of a phonograph record that has the less popular or secondary recording.
Morpheme Breakdown
flip
side
flip
side
Etymology
The word 'flipside' is a modern English compound formed from two native Germanic elements. 'Flip' is an imitative verb from the 16th century, evoking the sound and motion of a light, quick toss or reversal. 'Side' descends from Old English 'sīde', with a stable meaning of an aspect or surface. The term originated in the mid-20th century from the jargon of the phonograph record industry, where it literally meant the reverse, or 'B-side', of a vinyl single. Through metaphorical extension, this concrete meaning of the 'other side' of a physical object evolved into the modern abstract sense, referring to the often overlooked or contrasting aspect of any situation, argument, or issue.
Analysis
Structure: flip + side
- flip: (English, 16th c., imitative) A functional morpheme acting as an adjective, suggesting a quick, light, or reversed motion.
- side: (Old English 'sīde', from Proto-Germanic) A functional morpheme acting as a noun, meaning an aspect, surface, or part.
Examples
The job offers great pay, but the flipside is the incredibly long working hours.
The band's early single had a hit on one side and an experimental track on the flipside.
Optimism is important, but we must also consider the flipside of the plan.