Nota: A tradução desta entrada está atualmente em revisão de qualidade, portanto parte do conteúdo é exibida temporariamente apenas em inglês.
Este verbete ainda não foi traduzido para o seu idioma, portanto o original é exibido abaixo.
flail
This term evokes a sense of chaotic, uncontrolled motion. When used as a verb, it suggests a loss of coordination or a desperate attempt to regain balance, often associated with panic or extreme aggression. It differs from "swing" in that it implies a lack of precision and a wild, erratic trajectory.
As a noun, the word refers to specific tools of impact. Whether in an agricultural or martial context, the defining characteristic is the hinged or flexible connection between the handle and the striking head, which allows for a centrifugal force that is difficult to block or predict.
Meanings
Examples
He began to flail about in the water as the current pulled him under.
I can see her flailing her arms from the shore to get our attention.
The panicked soldier started to flail his sword blindly in the dark.
The knight swung a heavy flail to break through the enemy line.
Watch out for that spiked flail coming your way.
Farmers used a wooden flail to separate the grain from the husks.
He gripped the handle of the flail and began threshing the wheat.
Phrasal Verbs
flail about
to wave one's arms or legs wildly, typically due to panic or lack of control