Acrobatic: Definition, Usage & Examples

Meaning 1：graceful and athletic (acrobatic)

acrobatic 🔊

/ˌæk.rəˈbæt.ɪk/

adj.

related to movements that are very skillful and require great physical control, like flips and balancing.

Acrobatic definition illustrated by a gymnast performing a dynamic backflip on a circus stage.

graceful and athletic 🔊

➕

/ˈɡreɪs.fəl ənd æθˈlet.ɪk/

adj.

Describes movements or performances that showcase impressive physical skill, agility, and balance, often seen in gymnastics or circus acts.

📁 Category：Entertainment & Sports 🔖 Level：Intermediate

📘 Details & Usage

📖 Root Explanation

From Greek 'akrobatos' (walking on tiptoe) via French 'acrobate'.

💡 Mnemonic

Acro (high) + bat (bat flips) + ic → imagine a bat performing high flips.

📖 Example

The street performer's acrobatic flip over the bench drew cheers from the crowd. 🔊 The street performer's acrobatic flip over the bench drew cheers from the crowd.

🔗 Collocations

acrobatic feat – an impressive display of physical skill and daring

acrobatic maneuver – a complex and skillful movement requiring great control

acrobatic skills – the abilities related to performing gymnastic or balancing acts

🔄 Synonyms

agile (adj.) – able to move quickly and easily, but not necessarily implying the specific complex stunts of acrobatics

nimble (adj.) – quick and light in movement or action; deft

gymnastic (adj.) – relating to exercises developing or displaying physical agility and coordination

🚫 Antonyms

clumsy (adj.) – moving or acting in an awkward way

awkward (adj.) – lacking grace or skill in movement or performance

uncoordinated (adj.) – lacking physical coordination or the ability to perform smooth movements

🌱 Derivatives

acrobatically (adv.) – in a manner that involves acrobatic skill

acrobat (n.) – a performer who executes acrobatic feats

📖 Cultural Story

Derived from the Greek 'akrobatos', meaning 'walking on tiptoe'. It originally described ancient performers who walked ropes or performed at great heights, emphasizing skill and balance. The word entered English via French in the early 19th century, specifically associated with the circus arts.