Meaning & Definition of word "Flimsy"

Flimsy

/ˈflɪm.zi/

noun:

  • 1. A thin or fragile material.
    • Example: They used flimsy for the prototype, knowing it would only be temporary.

adjective:

  • 1. Easily damaged or broken; weak or fragile.
    • Example: The flimsy paper tore apart when it got wet.
  • 2. Not having much strength or substance; insubstantial.
    • Example: His argument was flimsy and failed to convince anyone.
  • 3. Lacking in seriousness or solidity; trivial.
    • Example: She dismissed his flimsy excuses with a wave of her hand.

Etymology

Originates from the early 19th century, possibly from a dialectal variant of 'flimsy', meaning weak or delicate.

Common Phrases and Expressions

a flimsy excuse:

an unconvincing or weak reason for something.

flimsy evidence:

insufficient or weak proof of something.

flimsy argument:

a weak or poorly constructed line of reasoning.

Related Words

fragile:

easily broken or damaged.

tenuous:

very weak or slight.

shabby:

in poor condition through long or hard use.

Slang Meanings of flimsy

Meaning: Weak in character or resolve.

Example Sentence: He's a bit flimsy when it comes to making tough decisions.

Meaning: Of poor quality or not credible.

Example Sentence: The flimsy report didn't convince anyone.