flippant

Flippant is an adjective used to describe a remark, attitude, or demeanor that shows a lack of proper respect or seriousness about a topic. A flippant comment treats important matters with glibness or levity, often implying insolence or contempt. The term suggests that the speaker is not taking others’ concerns, conventions, or consequences seriously, rather than simply being humorous.

In usage, flippant remarks are typically seen as inappropriate in formal or sensitive contexts, such as discussions of tragedy, injury, ethics, or professional duties. They may be perceived as witty or casual in informal settings, but more often they irritate or offend those who expect seriousness or tact. Context and audience strongly influence whether a flippant remark is tolerated.

Flippant is the standard modern form; related forms include flippancy (the noun) and flippantly (the adverb). The etymology traces to flip with the suffix -ant; the sense has shifted over centuries from playful or trifling to a more negative connotation of disrespectful frivolity.

Antonyms include serious, solemn, earnest, and respectful. Related terms include glib, facetious, and sardonic, though each carries its own nuance. In literary and media contexts, a deliberate flippant tone can be used for effect, but it risks undermining credibility or sensitivity.