Meaning of the word flounder in English

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

flounder

US /ˈflaʊn.dɚ/

UK /ˈflaʊn.dər/

struggle or stagger clumsily in mud or water or with difficulty in movement

Example:

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The horses were floundering in the heavy snow.

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He was floundering around in the water.

Synonym:

struggle stumble wallow blunder falter

struggle mentally; show or feel great confusion

Example:

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The company began to flounder when the economy worsened.

•

He was floundering for an answer.

Synonym:

struggle falter stumble hesitate waver

a small flatfish that typically lives in coastal waters and estuaries, often burrowing in sand or mud.

Example:

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We caught a flounder while fishing in the bay.

•

The chef prepared a delicious grilled flounder.

Synonym:

flatfish sole plaice