The Complete Vocabulary Builder Workbook

flout

IPA:

Dictionary definition of flout

To openly and deliberately disregard or disrespect a rule, law, or social convention.
"The rebellious teenager would often flout his parents' rules."

Detailed meaning of flout

Flout refers to the act of It is often used to describe someone who openly disobeys or ignores something that is widely accepted or expected. For example, one might say that someone is flouting traffic laws if they are driving recklessly or breaking the speed limit. Similarly, one might say that a person is flouting social norms if they are acting in a way that is considered impolite or unacceptable. The word can also be used to describe someone who is openly and intentionally disregarding a rule or law that they are expected to follow, such as a person who breaks a court order. In general, flout means to openly disregard or disrespect something that is widely accepted or expected.

Example sentences containing flout

1. He chose to flout the dress code, arriving at the formal event in jeans and a t-shirt.
2. Some motorists consistently flout traffic laws, endangering themselves and others.
3. The company's decision to flout environmental regulations led to hefty fines.
4. It's irresponsible to flout safety guidelines during a pandemic.
5. She had the audacity to flout the court order, ignoring its consequences.
6. The celebrity's tendency to flout societal norms garnered media attention.

History and etymology of flout

The verb 'flout' has its origins in Middle English and can be traced back to the Old French word 'floter,' which means 'to play the flute' or 'to jest.' This Old French term was influenced by the Latin word 'flare,' meaning 'to blow' or 'to puff,' which also had connotations of mockery. Over time, the meaning of 'flout' shifted to signify not just jesting or playing a flute but also openly and deliberately disregarding or disrespecting a rule, law, or social convention with a sense of mockery or disdain. The evolution of 'flout' reflects how language can transform over the centuries, with words taking on new meanings and nuances while retaining traces of their historical origins.

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Further usage examples of flout

1. Those who flout the rules should be prepared to face the consequences.
2. He decided to flout tradition by proposing in a unique and unconventional way.
3. The group continued to flout authority, refusing to follow orders.
4. Parents should not encourage their children to flout school rules.
5. It's crucial for leaders to set a positive example and not flout ethical standards.
6. The protesters decided to flout the curfew imposed by the authorities.
7. Despite the warnings, some drivers continued to flout the speed limits.
8. The wealthy businessman would often flout the regulations and exploit loopholes.
9. The celebrity thought they were above the law and would flout societal norms.
10. The company's CEO openly flouted ethical guidelines and faced public backlash.
11. The politician's behavior seemed to flout the principles they claimed to uphold.
12. The unruly crowd decided to flout the stadium's no-smoking policy.
13. The fashion-forward influencer would flout conventional dress codes and create new trends.
14. The daredevil biker loved to flout the safety precautions and perform risky stunts.
15. The controversial artist intentionally created provocative art to flout societal expectations.
16. The arrogant athlete would flout the rules of fair play during the game.
17. The millionaire would flout his wealth by throwing extravagant parties.
18. The hackers managed to flout security measures and gain unauthorized access.
19. The rebellious students would flout the school's dress code with their unconventional outfits.
20. The smugglers continued to flout customs regulations and transport illegal goods.
21. The corrupt politician would flout campaign finance laws and accept bribes.
22. The underground gambling den operated in secret, flouting gambling regulations.
23. The renowned chef would flout traditional recipes and experiment with bold flavors.
24. The social media influencer would flout privacy boundaries and share personal information.