backflip

noun

back·flip ˈbak-ˌflip

: 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.

Dynamic movements such as kicking, handstands, and backflips also help develop balance, agility, recovery, and endurance—capabilities that could prove valuable for demanding industrial work. — Jijo Malayil, Interesting Engineering, 10 Aug. 2026 Coach Matt LaFleur notably advised running back Marshawn Lloyd to avoid celebratory backflips, despite his strong camp, due to his injury history. — Rob Reischel, Forbes.com, 6 Aug. 2026 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 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 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

See more words from the same year

Browse Nearby Words

backflash

backflip

backflow

See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

Style

“Backflip.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/backflip. Accessed 13 Aug. 2026.

Copy Citation

Kids Definition

backflip

noun

back·flip -ˌflip

: a backward somersault especially in the air

backflip

noun

Examples of backflip in a Sentence

Word History

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

Kids Definition

More from Merriam-Webster

Word of the Day

salvo

Popular in Grammar & Usage

A Who’s Who Regarding ‘Who’s’ and ‘Whose’

7 Pairs of Commonly Confused Words

Is that lie 'bald-faced' or 'bold-faced'?

'A' or 'an'? What about before 'h'? An Indefinite Article Guide

Why is '-ed' sometimes pronounced at the end of a word?

Popular in Wordplay

Words from the 'Odyssey'

The Longest Long Words List

It's a Scorcher! Words for the Summer Heat

The Words of the Week - Aug. 14

12 Lovely and Unusual Words for the Natural World

Popular

A Who’s Who Regarding ‘Who’s’ and ‘Whose’

Words from the 'Odyssey'

The Longest Long Words List

Games & Quizzes