To suddenly become very angry, excited, or lose emotional control in a dramatic way. Often describes an unexpected or disproportionate reaction to a situation.
This phrase emerged in 1960s American slang, using 'flip' to suggest a sudden reversal or change of state, like flipping a switch or coin. The 'out' intensifies the meaning, suggesting someone has flipped beyond normal bounds. It may have connections to earlier expressions about 'flipping one's lid' or losing one's top.
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