flunk
UK[flʌŋk]US[flʌŋk]
v
to fail an exam, course, or task
v
to give a student a failing grade
Etymology
the word 'flunk' is an americanism that emerged in the early 19th century. its exact origin is obscure, but it is widely considered to be a college slang alteration of the british university term 'flinch' or perhaps a blend of 'fail' and 'funk' (meaning to shrink from in fear). the playful, onomatopoeic quality of the word, with its abrupt final 'k' sound, effectively conveys the sense of a sudden, disappointing failure. this informal term has remained firmly in the lexicon of academic and performance contexts, specifically denoting a clear and often decisive failure.
Analysis
the word is a simplex. its origin is uncertain but likely an alteration or blend of other words.
Examples
i'm worried i might flunk my chemistry final.
the professor had no choice but to flunk him for not submitting any work.
if you don't start studying, you'll flunk out of the program.