Flout - Meaning, Definition & English Examples
To flout means to openly disregard a rule, law, or convention, often showing contempt or defiance. For example, someone might flout traffic laws by speeding or ignoring signals.
Definition:
To openly disregard a rule, law, or convention.
Synonyms:
defy, disregard, scorn, mock
Part of Speech:
verb
Antonyms:
obey, respect, comply
Common Collocations:
flout authority, flout rules, flout conventions
Derivatives:
flouter, flouting
Usage Tips:
Use "flout" when someone intentionally ignores rules or norms; don’t confuse with "flaunt" (to show off).
Common Phrases:
flout the law, flout tradition, flout authority
Etymology:
Originates from Middle Dutch "fluiten," meaning to play the flute or mock; evolved to mean scornful disregard.
Examples:
- 1. The protesters chose to flout the curfew and gathered at night.
- 2. She continued to flout school rules despite warnings from the principal.
- 3. Drivers who flout traffic laws often face heavy fines.
- 4. The company was fined for flouting environmental regulations repeatedly.