rhizoverbBeta
DictionaryflounceExaggerated impatient movement
verb / noun

flounce

FLOUNS/flaʊns/

An exaggerated movement expressing irritation or impatience.

The angry man flounces through the doorway, flicking his hand dismissively behind him.

A visibly angry young man makes a theatrical exit through an open doorway, chin raised, shoulders stiff, one hand flicked dismissively backward and his jacket swinging with his emphatic stride.
Etymology
flounceEnglishto dash or flop about

The older abrupt-movement sense developed into an exaggerated display of impatience. The clothing ornament has a separate origin.

More examples

  • He flounces out of the room after losing the vote.
  • When asked to wait, she turns away with an impatient flounce.
  • They flounced past us without answering our question.

Forms

flounce · flounces · flounced · flouncing

Similar words

storm
Suggests an angry, forceful departure rather than exaggerated offended gestures.
stalk
Emphasizes stiff, proud steps rather than conspicuously impatient movements.