Meaning of the word flake in English

What does flake mean in English? Explore the meaning, pronunciation, and specific usage of this word with Lingoland.

flake

US /fleɪk/
UK /fleɪk/
"flake" picture

Noun

1.

a small, thin piece of something, especially one that has broken off a larger piece

Example:
Snow flakes fell softly on the ground.
There were tiny flakes of paint on the old wall.
2.

(informal) a person who is unreliable or tends to forget things or not show up

Example:
Don't invite him, he's such a flake and will probably cancel last minute.
I was supposed to meet Sarah, but she's a total flake and never showed up.

Verb

1.

to break or cause to break into small, thin pieces

Example:
The old paint began to flake off the wall.
His skin tends to flake in dry weather.
2.

(informal) to fail to keep an appointment or be unreliable

Example:
He promised to help, but he always flakes out at the last minute.
Don't count on him for the party; he might flake.
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