verb
B1
Intermediate
flunk
fluhngk
Flunk (verb) means to fail a class, test, or course. Example: “He flunked chemistry in his first year of college.”
verb
1
To fail a class, test, or course.
"He flunked chemistry in his first year of college."
2
To back out of something out of fear.
"She almost flunked the interview after losing her nerve."
How to use flunk
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishTo fail, especially an exam or course, in informal American English.
When to use it
Informal — mainly used in casual speech, especially about school and exams.
Common pairings
flunk a test
flunk out
flunk a class
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Word forms
- Third person singular
- flunks
- Past tense
- flunked
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
He _____ chemistry in his first year of college.
Etymology
Likely an alteration of "funk," possibly blended with "flinch."
Synonyms
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Rhymes for flunk
See all rhymes for flunk →Frequently asked questions
What does “flunk” mean?
The word “flunk” means to fail a class, test, or course. In plain terms, to fail, especially an exam or course, in informal American English.
How do you pronounce “flunk”?
“Flunk” is pronounced fluhngk (/flʌŋk/ in IPA).
How do you use “flunk” in a sentence?
Here is “flunk” used in a sentence: “He flunked chemistry in his first year of college.”
What part of speech is “flunk”?
“Flunk” is a verb.
How many meanings does “flunk” have?
“Flunk” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: to fail a class, test, or course.
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