acrobatic

American  

[ak-ruh-bat-ik] / ˌæk rəˈbæt ɪk /

Also acrobatical

adjective

1. of, relating to, or like an acrobat or acrobatics.

2. having the good balance, agility, and coordination of an acrobat.

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Other Word Forms

• acrobatically
  adverb
• semiacrobatic
  adjective

Etymology

Origin of acrobatic

From the Greek word akrobatikós, dating back to 1860–65. See acrobat, -ic

Explanation

Acrobatic describes something that's an amazing physical feat, especially if it involves agility and balance. An acrobatic dance routine might include back flips and handstands. If you're acrobatic, you're good at gymnastics or physical circus tricks. A border collie might make a particularly acrobatic Frisbee catch, twisting and spinning in the air, and a little boy could perform acrobatic cartwheels across the living room. The adjective comes from acrobat, which in French — acrobate — means "tightrope walker," from a Greek word, akrobates, "rope dancer," related to akrobatos, "going on tip toe" or "climbing up high."

Example Sentences

Mercutio in “Romeo and Juliet” begets similar difficulties: He loves to hear himself talk, and his utterances can have an acrobatic or even pyrotechnic quality.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 22, 2026

She did it against Spain on Tuesday, as England held on to a significant 1-0 win in part thanks to her acrobatic save, denying Edna Imade late on.

From BBC • Apr. 18, 2026

Nacua said his focus last season was to reduce the number of balls he dropped, and he delivered even when it required acrobatic moves to pull in catches with one hand.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 2, 2026

Barcelona reclaimed top spot in La Liga with a 3-0 win over Real Oviedo on Sunday, thanks to goals from Dani Olmo, Raphinha and an acrobatic Lamine Yamal effort.

From Barron's • Jan. 25, 2026

It lunged for her and Taylor dodged with acrobatic grace.

From "Beauty Queens" by Libba Bray