flagging

IPA

Dictionary definition of flagging

Diminishing energy or weakening strength, often suggesting a decline in enthusiasm or effectiveness.
"The patient's vital signs were flagging, so the nurse called for the doctor."

Detailed meaning of flagging

It often implies a decrease in vigor, enthusiasm, or strength. For example, a person's flagging energy might be evident when they start to feel fatigued after a long day of work. In the context of business or economics, flagging sales or a flagging economy suggests a decline or slowdown in activity. "Flagging" can also describe physical objects or structures that are deteriorating or losing their integrity, like a flagging fence that is falling apart due to wear and tear. Overall, the term "flagging" conveys a sense of diminished vitality or effectiveness and may indicate the need for revitalization or improvement.

Example sentences of flagging

1. Despite their flagging efforts, they managed to complete the marathon.
2. The flagging economy required urgent intervention from the government.
3. Her flagging enthusiasm for the project became evident over time.
4. The flagging interest in the conference led to a change in format.
5. The company's flagging sales prompted a marketing overhaul.
6. He tried to rekindle his flagging motivation by setting new goals.

History and etymology of flagging

The adjective 'flagging' has its etymological roots in the world of flags and banners. It is derived from the verb 'flag,' which originally meant 'to hang loosely or droop.' This verb 'flag' came from the Old Norse word 'flagga,' which referred to a flag or banner. Over time, the term 'flagging' took on a figurative meaning, describing something that is diminishing in energy or weakening in strength, often implying a decline in enthusiasm or effectiveness. The connection between the physical act of a flag drooping and a person's declining energy or enthusiasm lies at the heart of the word's etymology, highlighting how language can evolve and adapt to convey abstract concepts through metaphorical extensions of its original meanings.

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Further usage examples of flagging

1. The team's flagging spirits were lifted after their recent victory.
2. Flagging productivity called for a revamp of the workflow.
3. The flagging attendance at the event raised concerns.
4. She infused energy into the flagging meeting with her enthusiasm.
5. Flagging morale among employees necessitated team-building activities.
6. Despite her flagging health, she continued to pursue her passions.
7. The flagging stock prices prompted investors to reconsider.
8. The manager's pep talk rejuvenated the team's flagging confidence.
9. The flagging interest in the project signaled the need for innovation.
10. They devised a plan to boost the flagging membership of the club.
11. The flagging support for the charity event worried the organizers.
12. His flagging endurance during the race surprised everyone.
13. The flagging response to the campaign indicated a need for adjustments.
14. She hoped to reinvigorate her flagging career with new opportunities.
15. She took evening classes in an attempt to revive her flagging career.
16. His enthusiasm for the project was flagging, so he took a break to recharge.
17. The team's performance has been flagging recently, so the coach decided to shake things up with some new drills.
18. The company's sales have been flagging for the past few quarters, so they are looking for new ways to boost business.
19. She noticed that her memory has been flagging lately, so she started taking a daily supplement.
20. His attention span has been flagging lately, so he has been having trouble focusing on his work.
21. The school's enrollment numbers have been flagging for the past few years, so they are trying to improve their marketing efforts.
22. She noticed that her plant's leaves were flagging, so she gave it some extra water and moved it to a sunnier spot.
23. His motivation has been flagging lately, so he's been trying to find ways to get himself back on track.
24. The team's morale has been flagging due to a string of recent losses, so the coach has been trying to lift their spirits.
25. She noticed that her energy levels have been flagging lately, so she's been trying to get more sleep and eat healthier.
26. She began to feel her energy flagging after working all day.

Synonyms

faltering

declining

decreasing

deteriorating

ebbing

fading

tiring

waning

weakening

IPA