cape work

American  

noun

1. the skillful practice of a bullfighter in using a cape to maneuver a bull.

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Etymology

Origin of cape work

First recorded in 1925–30

Example Sentences

Suddenly, “some innate instinct” compels his arms forward; he begins swinging them around to execute a fit of imaginary cape work, as though, there in his attic, he is commanding an invisible bull.

From New York Times • May 3, 2022

Then she hops on to the ground for conventional cape work.

From Time Magazine Archive

"Bela," says Moro, "had the mannerisms, the Transylvanian suavity, the cape work, all that, but I don't think he ever really felt the urges."

From Time Magazine Archive

The cape work is when the detective sees his various suspects.

From Time Magazine Archive

Like latter-day bullfighters who prefer cape work to killing, many place more emphasis on form and finesse in handling tackle than on catching fish.

From Time Magazine Archive