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

Ndedi, from Cameroon, uses her acrobatic skills for the most elaborate escapes, Cryptic is the hacker from Kenya and Congolese Fred is the getaway driver and gadget maker.

From BBC • Feb. 9, 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 took tight end Colby Parkinson hauling in an acrobatic touchdown pass from Stafford with 38 seconds left to save the Rams’ season.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jan. 12, 2026

The year's biggest touring acts will include Take That, who are bringing back their spectacular, acrobatic Circus Tour from 2009 for a new, 17-date run.

From BBC • Dec. 29, 2025

The maroon demon made an acrobatic leap and caught the chicken by both legs.

From "Fablehaven" by Brandon Mull