flame out
phrasal verb.phrasal verb. to fail suddenly and completely after a short period of success or intense activity.
phrasal verb. to fail spectacularly or cease functioning, often due to exhaustion, overexertion, or burning through resources too quickly; frequently used in the context of careers or business ventures.
The new startup flamed out after only six months.
Many young athletes flame out early because they cannot handle the pressure of professional competition.
The candidate's campaign began with record-breaking donations but flamed out following a series of high-profile scandals and strategic missteps.
usually used intransitively to describe a person, project, or organization.
the metaphor comes from a jet engine failing or a fire burning through its fuel; it implies a bright, intense start followed by a total stop.
The project was flamed out by the manager.The project flamed out.this is an intransitive phrasal verb and cannot be used in the passive voice.
Last updated April 24, 2026