English Explanatory Dictionary

flash in the pan

English dictionary entry

Meanings

noun
  1. A transient occurrence with no long-term impact.
  2. A career notable for early success not followed by significant accomplishment.

Pronunciation

en-au-flash in the pan.ogg

Word forms

flash in the pan flashes in the pan flash in the pans

Etymology

From the days of flintlock firearms, where the main charge was intended to be fired by a small charge of gunpowder in the priming pan. If the resultant fire did not pass through the touch hole and ignite the main charge, it produced noise and smoke, but no substantial effect, and was termed a flash in the pan. Sometimes called fluff in the pan, the term refers to any ineffectual, short, spasmodic effort that dies in the attempt, such as an explosion of priming in the lockpan of a gun while the gun itself does not go off.

Related words

flash pan burst someone's bubble damp squib go off half-cocked lightning in a bottle lock, stock and barrel much ado about nothing one-hit wonder sleeveless errand wild-goose chase
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