Aflap

Pronunciation: /əˈflæp/

Definitions of aflap

noun aflap

Example Sentences

A1 The wind blew the tent aflap.

A2 She ran into the room with papers aflap in her hand.

B1 The bird's wings were aflap as it took off into the sky.

B2 The flags were set aflap by the strong gusts of wind.

C1 The curtains were set aflap by the open window.

C2 The sails of the boat were aflap as it sailed towards the horizon.

Examples of aflap in a Sentence

formal The bird's wings were aflap as it took off into the sky.

informal I ran into the room with my hair all aflap from the wind outside.

slang She was in such a rush that her papers were all aflap as she ran down the hallway.

figurative The news of the scandal set the town aflap with gossip and speculation.

Grammatical Forms of aflap

• past tense: aflapped
• plural: aflaps
• comparative: more aflap
• superlative: most aflap
• present tense: aflaps
• future tense: will aflap
• perfect tense: has aflapped
• continuous tense: is aflapping
• singular: aflap
• positive degree: aflap
• infinitive: to aflap
• gerund: aflapping
• participle: aflapping

Origin and Evolution of aflap

First Known Use: 1300 year

Language of Origin: Middle English

Story behind the word: The word 'aflap' originated from Middle English, likely derived from the Old English word 'aflæppa' meaning to flap or flutter.

Evolution of the word: Over time, 'aflap' has retained its original meaning of flapping or fluttering, but it has also evolved to be used more figuratively to describe a sudden commotion or disturbance.