fizzle

[fiz-uhl]

verb (used without object)

fizzled, fizzling 

1. to make a hissing or sputtering sound, especially one that dies out weakly.

2. Informal.,  to fail ignominiously after a good start (often followed byout ).

   The reform movement fizzled out because of poor leadership.

   Synonyms: founder, collapse, miscarry

noun

1. a fizzling, hissing, or sputtering.

2. Informal.,  a failure; fiasco.

fizzle

/ ˈfɪzəl /

verb

1. to make a hissing or bubbling sound

2. informal,  (often foll by out) to fail or die out, esp after a promising start

noun

1. a hissing or bubbling sound; fizz

2. informal,  an outright failure; fiasco

Word History and Origins

Origin of fizzle¹

1525–35; earlier fysel to break wind, frequentative of *fise < Old Norse fīsa to break wind; akin to feist

Word History and Origins

Origin of fizzle¹

C16: probably from obsolete fist to break wind

Example Sentences

The final quarter fizzled out as changes and a slippery ball broke up any rhythm to the contest, but there are likely to be fireworks, and a more testing encounter for England, on semi-final weekend.

From BBC

Whether Sunday proves to be a momentum-builder — or just another flash of promise that once again fizzles — remains to be seen as they enter September.

From Los Angeles Times

The final minutes fizzled out as both sides emptied their benches, but Canada had done all the damage in the first half and have now beaten Wales in their past eight outings.

From BBC

Into the weekend, some weather fronts may try and push in from the west but are likely to be fairly weak as they bump into high pressure and then fizzle out.

From BBC

Tyler Glasnow fizzled after two electric opening innings, leaving the game at the end of the fifth after giving up two runs.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• abort 
• misfire 
• peter out 
• wane