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

Russell is heard to ask, and is told that such acrobatics are not in that plane’s repertoire.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 9, 2026

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 • Dec. 23, 2025

The two-hour documentary includes interviews with Carrey and O’Brien, as well as “Only Murders in the Building” stars Steve Martin and Martin Short, a duo deeply influenced by Van Dyke’s blend of eloquence and acrobatics.

From Salon • Dec. 13, 2025

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 • Oct. 26, 2025

Magdalys wanted to ask her who on earth she was, this strange, slender girl who seemed to know everything from battle tactics to acrobatics, but she restrained herself.

From "Dactyl Hill Squad" by Daniel José Older