handspring

American  

[hand-spring] / ˈhændˌsprɪŋ /

noun

1. an acrobatic feat in which one starts from a standing position and wheels the body forward or backward in a complete circle, landing first on the hands and then on the feet, without contact by the rest of the body.

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verb (used without object)

handsprang, handsprung, handspringing

1. to perform a handspring.

handspring British  

/ ˈhændˌsprɪŋ /

noun

1. a gymnastic feat in which a person starts from a standing position and leaps forwards or backwards into a handstand and then onto his feet

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Etymology

Origin of handspring

First recorded in 1870–75; hand + spring

Example Sentences

Moors, a graduate student who will compete at Pauley Pavilion one last time Sunday, didn’t need a back handspring to achieve her ultimate dreams.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 7, 2025

During her own career, Dagen briefly “forgot” how to do a back handspring.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 7, 2025

“Together we’re providing opportunities for all kids to experience the joy of movement — and the confidence it builds — from their first forward roll to first back handspring and beyond.”

From Seattle Times • Aug. 3, 2023

"I was practising a new vault, which is known as a handspring front somersault, for an upcoming competition," she said.

From BBC • Jul. 16, 2023

Baby turned another handspring and made a split again on the waxed floor.

From "The Heart is a Lonely Hunter" by Carson McCullers