balance beam

American  

noun

1. a narrow wooden rail about 16 feet (5 meters) long and 4 inches (10 centimeters) wide, set horizontally on upright posts about 4 feet (1.2 meters) from the floor, used for performing feats of balancing and demonstrating gymnastic ability.

2. a competitive gymnastic event for women in which such an apparatus is used.

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Etymology

Origin of balance beam

First recorded in 1945–50

Example Sentences

Sullivan competed in all events for the first time this season and scored a 9.775 on the balance beam.

From Los Angeles Times

The team’s dismounts were nearly perfect against Nebraska, especially on the balance beam.

From Los Angeles Times

Moving over to the balance beam, the Bruins struggled at the start, with Matthews falling and Sumanasekera wobbling.

From Los Angeles Times

Spend the afternoon at the mini-golf course and the adjacent ropes course, where harnessed participants can hobble on balance beams and unbalanced steps.

From Los Angeles Times

Oklahoma scored a 49.615 on balance beam, an event in which it is ranked No. 1 nationally.

From Los Angeles Times