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

As for her viral acrobatic performances, those appeared to have been on hold in the year before her death.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 18, 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 image shows the assistant completely upside down in an acrobatic posture, with a funny expression on his face, creating a photograph with a comical tone.

From BBC • Dec. 25, 2025

The 25-year-old's incredible acrobatic effort was enough to earn a 1-0 win for his side in May and left opposition goalkeeper Ezequiel Centurion rooted to the spot.

From BBC • Dec. 16, 2025

The horse is renowned for his strength and valour, and sires acrobatic colts.

From "The Astonishing Life of Octavian Nothing, Traitor to the Nation, Volume I: The Pox Party" by M.T. Anderson