Definition of: fizzle

(fiz′əl) v.i. fiz·zled, fiz·zling
1. To make a hissing noise, as wet wood or gunpowder when burning.
2. Colloq. To fail, especially after a good start.
—to fizzle out To become a failure.
—noun
1. A spluttering; fizzing.
2. A person, an attempt, or an undertaking that fails or comes to nothing; an ignominious failure, as in a recitation. [Freq. of obs. fise break wind]