acrobatics

American  

[ak-ruh-bat-iks] / ˌæk rəˈbæt ɪks /

noun

1. (used with a plural verb) the feats of an acrobat; gymnastics.

2. (used with a singular verb) the art or practice of acrobatic feats.

3. (used with a plural verb) something performed with remarkable agility and ease.

   the verbal acrobatics of a habitual liar.

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acrobatics British  

/ ˌækrəˈbætɪks /

noun

1. (functioning as plural) the skills or feats of an acrobat

2. (functioning as singular) the art of an acrobat

3. (functioning as plural) any activity requiring agility and skill

   mental acrobatics

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Etymology

Origin of acrobatics

First recorded in 1880–85; acrobatic, -ics

Compare meaning

How does acrobatics compare to similar and commonly confused words? Explore the most common comparisons:

• acrobatics vs. gymnastics

Example Sentences

“I am not a fan of surprise acrobatics,” he told Duane.

From Literature

"I did flying trapeze, acrobatics, and I absolutely loved the performance element of it all," she said.

From BBC

American legend Shaun White may have retired but there will still be plenty of gasp-inducing acrobatics as riders drop into the pipe to show off their bag of tricks.

From BBC

Shooting Benson Boone’s trademark leaping acrobatics at his Coachella debut this year gave me the chance to bridge the gap between musical generations.

From Los Angeles Times

Thousands flocked to the city of Weimar for a recent festival that celebrated the linguistic tradition with workshops, cabaret performances and even heart-stopping circus acrobatics.

From Barron's