acrobatics

[ ak-ruh-bat-iks ]

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.

acrobatics

/ 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

Word History and Origins

Origin of acrobatics¹

First recorded in 1880–85; acrobatic, -ics

Example Sentences

When I watch “America’s Got Talent,” I guess I’m watching the future of Olympics sports — human/dog acrobatics, human pyramids, acrobats spinning 30 feet up in the air, complex acrobatic dance groups, etc.

From Los Angeles Times

The most acrobatic - or foolhardy - spectators started scaling any available object to get a better view - performing feats of acrobatics not seen until the Games's official climbing contest began a week or so later.

From BBC

The high marks for choreography and acrobatics represented redemption for the U.S. team, which failed to qualify for the Tokyo Olympics.

From Los Angeles Times

At tournaments teams square off, trying to impress judges with high-intensity routines involving acrobatics, dance and tumbling.

From BBC

The Indian Air Force’s Sarang aerial display team will showcase its aerial acrobatics.

From Seattle Times