coin flip
noun
plural coin flips
1
: a method for randomly choosing between two options that involves tossing a coin up in the air and letting which side is shown when it lands determine the choice
For centuries, people have relied on the coin flip as a fair, unbiased, and quick way to settle disputes, start games, and make decisions. … In theory, a coin flip has a 50% chance of heads and a 50% chance of tails.—Faddi Shaikh
A state law says when there is a tie and 5,000 or fewer votes in an election, the local board of elections must use a method of random selection, like a coin flip.—Billy Chapman
Ryan anointed Tomlinson his starter and named him and former Chargers cornerback Antonio Cromartie captains for the opening coin flip.—Damon Hack
2
: an even chance : toss-up
It was a total coin flip coming into the season … if it would be Rutherford or Glen Rock representing the Liberty in the four-team postseason.—Ryan Patti
… there is no way to count more than 100 million votes and get the same count every time. If the vote is close—and that is the only situation where a single vote matters—it is essentially a coin flip.—Michael Kinsley
Cite this Entry
“Coin flip.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/coin%20flip. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.
Copy CitationLove words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
