# flip the bird

idiom

Source: https://englishreference.com/idiom/flip-the-bird
Updated: 2026-08-10

## Meaning

To make a rude or obscene gesture (at somebody); particularly, to extend the middle finger.

## Examples

- He got angry and flipped the bird at the driver.
- The frustrated customer flipped the bird at the manager before storming out of the store.
- Despite the gravity of the diplomatic summit, the protestor stood outside and brazenly flipped the bird at the passing motorcade.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.