Acrobat: Definition, Usage & Examples

Meaning 1：skilled aerial performer (acrobat)

acrobat 🔊

/ˈæk.rə.bæt/

A performer who does very difficult and skilful physical movements, like balancing, jumping, and flipping, often in a circus or show.

Acrobat performing a one-handed handstand on a high platform in a colorful circus scene under the big top.

skilled aerial performer 🔊

➕

/ˈskɪld ˈeəriəl pəˈfɔːmər/

A person who performs impressive acts of physical agility, balance, and coordination, often involving heights, flips, and complex maneuvers, typically as part of a show or entertainment.

📁 Category：Entertainment & Sports 🔖 Level：初级

📘 Details & Usage

📖 Root Explanation

From Greek "akrobatēs" (walking on tiptoe), from "akros" (high, extreme) + "bainein" (to walk).

💡 Mnemonic

Think of an **A**CROBAT as an **A**thlete who performs **CRO**ss-body, **B**alanced, **A**erial **T**ricks.

📖 Example

The acrobat balanced perfectly on one hand atop a tall stack of chairs, thrilling the entire audience. 🔊 The skilled aerial performer balanced perfectly on one hand atop a tall stack of chairs, thrilling the entire audience.

🔗 Collocations

circus acrobat – a performer specializing in acrobatics within a circus

acrobatic performance – a show or act featuring acrobatics

acrobat troupe – a group of acrobats who perform together

🔄 Synonyms

gymnast (n.) – A person skilled in gymnastics, often involving similar feats of strength and agility, but more commonly associated with sports than performance.

tumbler (n.) – An acrobat who specializes in somersaults, rolls, and other ground-based agile movements.

aerialist (n.) – A performer who specializes in acts performed high in the air, such as on a trapeze or silks.

🚫 Antonyms

spectator (n.) – A person who watches an event or performance rather than participating in it.

🌱 Derivatives

acrobatic (adj.) – Relating to or resembling the feats of an acrobat; agile and nimble.

acrobatically (adv.) – In an acrobatic manner.

acrobatics (n.) – The gymnastic moves and skills performed by an acrobat.

📖 Cultural Story

The word originates from ancient Greece. "Akrobatēs" referred to a person who walks on tiptoe or climbs high. This directly relates to the core skill of acrobats: balancing and performing at height, a tradition continued in modern circuses and performances.