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Definitions

flash in the pan

NOUN
momentary success
Synonyms
WEAK
brief success bugbear dud fad failure misfire nine days' wonder wet squib

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

"Jacob wasn't a flash in the pan or just a talent - he was someone that wouldn't let you down," he said.

From BBC • Aug. 18, 2025

She’s far from the early days of her career, when many considered her defiance a gimmick, or refuted her as a flash in the pan.

From Salon • Feb. 5, 2025

Whether that will make Leverkusen perennial contenders or a one-season flash in the pan remains to be seen.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 16, 2024

Petersen doesn’t seem worried about Browning being a flash in the pan.

From Seattle Times • Dec. 8, 2023

Love with us you know, was rather a flash in the pan.

From Linda Lee, Incorporated A Novel by Vance, Louis Joseph