flapper

noun

flap·​per ˈfla-pər How to pronounce flapper (audio)
1
a
: something used in flapping or striking
b
: one that flaps
2
: a young woman
specifically : a young woman of the period of World War I and the following decade who showed freedom from conventions (as in conduct)

Examples of flapper in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
There were some powerful references to the 1920s, when the brand was founded, in the form of delicate and embellished flapper dress silhouettes. Laia Farran Graves, Forbes, 6 Mar. 2025 Some audience members dress as flappers or silent movie stars. Heather Kathryn Ross, Smithsonian Magazine, 28 Feb. 2025 One pink gown, with dramatic feathering at the bottom, was reminiscent of 1920s-style flapper glam. Alyssa Goldberg, USA TODAY, 15 Feb. 2025 Try a halterneck, a strapless style, or a thick tie waistband. Find it on Amazon Flaunt Your Feathers in This Bandage Style The soft feather trim of this dress adds a flawless flapper vibe to your style. Kat Romero, Rolling Stone, 20 Dec. 2024 See All Example Sentences for flapper

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1570, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Time Traveler
The first known use of flapper was circa 1570

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Cite this Entry

“Flapper.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/flapper. Accessed 19 Mar. 2025.

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