Flashback Definition

flashback
noun
  1. a transition (in literary or theatrical works or films) to an earlier event or scene that interrupts the normal chronological development of the story
  2. an unexpected but vivid recurrence of a past experience (especially a recurrence of the effects of an hallucinogenic drug taken much earlier)

"Flashback" in song lyrics

See how flashback is used in real songs:

  • "All of a sudden, I started catching a dark flashback"
    Chino XL — Beef Ain't Over
  • "Keep that on your mind like a flashback"
    The Cross Movement — On Right Now
  • "Nowadays, love's in the haze of a flashback"
    CunninLynguists — Shattered Dreams

Usage tips for "flashback"

Understanding the precise definition of a word helps you use it with confidence. When using "flashback" in your writing, consider whether you need the word itself or one of its synonyms — subtle differences in meaning can change the tone of a sentence. If you're writing poetry or song lyrics, check the rhymes for flashback to find words that pair well.

Look up another word