The word "flout" is spelled with the letters F-L-O-U-T. The IPA phonetic transcription for "flout" is /flaʊt/. The first sound, /f/, is a voiceless labiodental fricative, meaning that the sound is made by placing the lips on the teeth and blowing air through them with no vibration of the vocal cords. The second sound, /l/, is a voiced alveolar lateral approximant, meaning that the sound is made by placing the tongue at the alveolar ridge and allowing air to flow around the sides of the tongue. The final sound, /t/, is a voiceless alveolar plosive, meaning that the sound is made by stopping the flow of air briefly with the tongue, then releasing it abruptly.
Flout is a verb that refers to the act of openly disregarding or mocking a rule, convention, or authority. When someone flouts, they intentionally show disregard or disrespect for something that is widely accepted or enforced by society. It implies a deliberate and bold defiance, often with a certain sense of arrogance.
Flouting can take various forms, such as openly and brazenly defying traffic laws, disregarding etiquette or social norms, or intentionally violating established protocols. Someone may flout a law by breaking it in a flagrant and contemptuous manner, or they may flout a company policy by openly ignoring it without consequences or concern. The intention behind flouting is usually to challenge or rebel against the authority, expressing a sense of superiority or a desire to go against the norm.
Flouting can be seen as an act of resistance or a way to assert one's independence from established rules and expectations. It may be used to express dissent, nonconformity, or a desire to provoke a reaction. However, flouting can also be seen as impolite, disrespectful, or disruptive, as it undermines the social order and can have negative consequences for individuals or a community.
In summary, flout is a verb that describes openly disregarding or mocking rules, conventions, or authority with a sense of defiance or arrogance. It implies a deliberate and audacious display of disobedience in disregard for accepted norms or expectations.
• A mock; an insult.
• To mock; to treat with contempt; to jeer.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "flout" originated from Middle English, specifically from the Old Norse term "flúta", which means "to mock, jest". The Old Norse language influenced the development of Old English, and as a result, the term "flout" was adopted into the English language. Over time, the spelling and pronunciation of the word evolved, leading to its modern usage and form.