First Known Use: circa 1702
Dictionary
1flimsy
adjective flim·sy \ˈflim-zē\
: easily broken, torn, etc. : not strong or solid
: not likely to be true or to be believed
flim·si·erflim·si·est
Full Definition of FLIMSY
1
a : lacking in physical strength or substance <flimsy silks> b : of inferior materials and workmanship
2
: having little worth or plausibility <a flimsy excuse>
— flim·si·ly \-zə-lē\ adverb
— flim·si·ness \-zē-nəs\ noun
See flimsy defined for English-language learners
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Origin of FLIMSY
perhaps alteration of 1film + -sy (as in tricksy)
Related to FLIMSY
- Synonyms
- cobwebby, filmy, frothy, gauzy, gossamer, gossamery, insubstantial, sleazy, unsubstantial
- Antonyms
- sturdy, substantial
2flimsy
noun
plural flim·sies
Definition of FLIMSY
chiefly British : a lightweight paper used especially for multiple copies; also : a document printed on flimsy
First Known Use of FLIMSY
1814
FLIMSY Defined for Kids
flimsy
adjective flim·sy \ˈflim-zē\
flim·si·erflim·si·est
Definition of FLIMSY for Kids
: not strong or solid <a flimsy cardboard box> <a flimsy excuse>
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