verb · C2

Flout

FLOWT/flaʊt/

Flout means ignore a rule openly and scornfully: flout the law, flout convention. Break is everyday; defy is a close cousin. Flaunt is show off (flaunt wealth) — the classic pair. You flout a rule; you flaunt a possession. Do not write flaunt the speed limit.

Meaning

To ignore a rule or convention openly and scornfully.

Examples

“Cyclists who flout the lights endanger pedestrians.”
“Drivers who flout the lights treat the crossing as optional.”
“She did not flaunt the prize; colleagues who flouted the embargo did the damage.”

Good to know

Openly scorn a rule. Mix-up: flaunt (show off). Close: defy. Everyday: break a rule (weaker on the scorn).

Near in meaning

defy

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