flash in the pan

noun phrase

1
: a sudden spasmodic effort that accomplishes nothing
2
: one that appears promising but turns out to be disappointing or worthless

Examples of flash in the pan in a Sentence

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Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
But whether this is a flash in the pan or a sign of things to come is, like so much in this country, up for debate. — Elizabeth Logan, Glamour, 27 Feb. 2025 Whether the spike was a flash in the pan or a sign of things to come, time will tell. — Josh Hammer, Newsweek, 15 Feb. 2025

Word History

Etymology

from the firing of the priming in the pan of a flintlock musket without discharging the piece

First Known Use

1706, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of flash in the pan was in 1706

Rhymes for flash in the pan

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Browse Nearby Words

flashing tile
flash in the pan
flashlamp
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Cite this Entry

“Flash in the pan.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/flash%20in%20the%20pan. Accessed 27 Mar. 2025.

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