flop
UK[flɒp]US[flɑːp]
v
To fall, move, or hang in a heavy, loose, and uncontrolled way.
v
To fail completely.
n
A complete failure.
Etymology
The word 'flop' is a vivid example of sound symbolism, originating in the early 17th century as an imitation of the dull, heavy sound made by something soft falling flat. This phonetic imitation gave it the core sense of moving or falling loosely and heavily. From this physical meaning, a figurative extension naturally developed in the 19th century to describe a theatrical or commercial failure, evoking the image of a performance falling flat and lifeless. Its journey from a mimetic sound to a descriptor of both physical motion and abstract failure showcases the expressive capacity of the English lexicon.
Analysis
The word 'flop' is an onomatopoeic formation, imitating the sound of something heavy and soft falling loosely. It is not productively composed of classical morphemes.
Examples
The exhausted cat flopped down onto the sofa.
Despite the marketing campaign, the new product flopped spectacularly.
The movie was a critical and commercial flop.