: a backward somersault especially in the air

Examples of backflip 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.
However, there may have been no story with as many legs — pun intended — as the backflip heard 'round the world from New York Giants running back Cam Skattebo. Matt Reigle Outkick, FOXNews.com, 31 July 2026 Evans avoided a charging Breakker with a backflip and tagged Dragon Lee, who was rolling until Paul interfered, allowing Breakker to catch Lee in midair with a powerslam. Alfred Konuwa, Forbes.com, 21 July 2026 Then in May, Skattebo landed a backflip after hitting a home run at teammate Brian Burns’ celebrity softball game. Peter Sblendorio, New York Daily News, 20 July 2026 The day prior, Skattebo stepped onto the Fanatics Fest stage, lifted up his pant leg to show off the massive scar on his right leg and then launched into a backflip in front of the crowd. Skyler Caruso, PEOPLE, 20 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for backflip

Word History

First Known Use

1904, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of backflip was in 1904

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Cite this Entry

“Backflip.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/backflip. Accessed 5 Aug. 2026.

Kids Definition

backflip

noun
: a backward somersault especially in the air
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