Word of the Week: Flounce

Most of us have spent years trying not to be “too much.”

Too loud, too sensitive, too opinionated, too dramatic. We’ve been told to tone it down, keep it together, and be agreeable.

But this week?

We’re flouncing.

What does it mean to flounce?

It’s that big, bold exit from a conversation that’s going nowhere. It’s the dramatic sigh when you drop your keys again. It’s tossing your scarf over your shoulder like a soap opera character—even if you’re just going to Trader Joe’s.

To flounce is to move through the world with unapologetic flair.

And even if you’re not a “dramatic” person, flouncing isn’t about causing a scene. It’s about trying on a little extra expression—giving yourself permission to stop shrinking and start showing up with just a little more attitude, humor, or style.

Try it On for Size: 7 Everyday Ways to Flounce

Not sure how to flounce in your everyday life? Here are some small, satisfying ways to add a little theatrical energy to your week:

• Exit a group text like you mean it. Mute. Leave. Bonus points for a graceful “Wishing you all the best!”

• Open the fridge, sigh, and say, “There’s nothing for me here.” Then, dramatically close it.

• Toss your cardigan on the couch like it betrayed you.

• Send a calendar decline with a bit of ✨flair✨. “Unfortunately, I will not be attending this chaos.”

• Choose a walk playlist that makes you feel like the lead in a romantic comedy. Head held high. Wind optional.

• Say “I’m done here” out loud when you log off for the day. Bonus if you actually flounce away from your laptop.

• Leave a voicemail like you’re in a period drama. Start with “It is I,” and end with, “I must rest now.” Then hang up. No notes.

Why It Matters

Flouncing is about expressing yourself—no filter, no apology. It’s an invitation to add color back into your day, whether it’s through movement, humor, style, or just plain attitude.

Sometimes we need to break the pattern of being overly reasonable, overly polite, or overly burdened. And honestly? A good flounce can be weirdly therapeutic.

So go ahead. Toss that metaphorical scarf. Make that dramatic exit.

This week, let yourself flounce—even just a little.

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About the Author:

Elizabeth Rago is a word-loving, community-building powerhouse who’s just as comfortable wrangling RFPs as she is wrangling teenagers (which says a lot about her patience and project management skills).

By day, she's a Proposal Writer, crafting winning messaging for big business. When the workday ends, she trades deadlines for dinner duty and teenage debates — holding it all together with love, Earl Grey tea, and a well-honed sense of humor.

After walking through a rough season in her own life, Elizabeth saw firsthand how isolating it can be for women going through hard times. Instead of sitting in that shame, she founded MDW (The Modern Domestic Woman) — a warm, practical, and no-nonsense space where women can find resources, support, and a whole lot of real talk. From mental health referrals to interviews with therapists and lifestyle articles, MDW has become a haven for women who want community without the fluff.

Elizabeth has spent over 20 years writing for just about every industry under the sun — from luxury kitchen design and sustainable living to commercial insurance and mental health advocacy. She’s ghostwritten for executives, co-hosted a podcast about the hilarity and chaos of motherhood, and even helped spotlight fascinating local people and places through her syndicated column.

Equal parts strategy and soul, Elizabeth believes in the power of storytelling, the magic of a strong community, and never underestimates the therapeutic power of a well-placed meme. Learn more about Elizabeth at MDWcares.com or connect with her on Insta or LinkedIn.