flail

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Such small fry could easily flail or fail.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 13, 2026

He opened the unlocked door of a police vehicle, climbed into the back and began to flail in distress.

From Los Angeles Times • Feb. 24, 2026

Gobert was initially assessed a common foul, but officials ruled it a flagrant after a review, saying he made an "unnecessary flail" with his arm.

From Barron's • Feb. 21, 2026

As a beginner, I expected the arms and hands to flail around, knocking the blocks and cups around the room.

From BBC • Feb. 12, 2026

My arms flail out at him, wanting to make him take it back.

From "Girl in the Blue Coat" by Monica Hesse