View synonyms for spread eagle

spread eagle

noun

a representation of an eagle with outspread wings: used as an emblem of the U.S.
an acrobatic figure in skating performed by making a glide with the skates touching heel-to-heel in a straight line and with the arms outstretched.
an acrobatic stunt in ski jumping executed with the legs and arms widely outstretched to the sides.

spread-eagle

[ spred-ee-guhl ]

Phonetic (Standard)IPA

having or suggesting the form of a spread eagle.
lying prone with arms and legs outstretched.
boastful or bombastic, especially in the display of patriotic or nationalistic pride in the U.S.

, spread-ea·gled, spread-ea·gling.

, spread-ea·gled, spread-ea·gling.

to assume the position or perform the acrobatic figure of a spread eagle:
The skater spread-eagled across the rink.

spread-eagle

spread eagle

the representation of an eagle with outstretched wings, used as an emblem of the US
an acrobatic skating figure

First recorded in 1560–70

First recorded in 1820–30

These Tumblrs have both gone viral, but New York subway cars are still full of men sitting spread eagle across three seats.

I landed spread-eagle on my stomach, my head and back struck by a relentless storm of pulverized glass and cement.

One of the great things about Peter Tory as an interview subject is the obvious relish he takes in saying “spread eagle.”

But if Emetic could not spread-eagle the field, she could set a pace that would try the stamina and lungs of Pegasus.

I landed sort of spread-eagle flat and seemed to hang there before I slid down the wall to the floor with a meaty-sounding Whump!

I have no military ambition,—wouldn't give a rush for a spread eagle,—don't like the braying by a mortar.

It was the age of "spread-eagle" speeches, and many of Benton's were no exception to the rule.

"The spread eagle ought to use his wings," said Mrs. Tristram.

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