cape work

noun

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

Word History and Origins

Origin of cape work¹

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

Chad is one of nearly 3,000 18 to 35-year-olds to have gone through the Western Cape Work and Skills Programme since it launched in 2009.

From BBC

Though I will note some excellent if fleeting cape work by Alan Rickman, and no sign of Maggie Smith -- can anyone spot her?

From Seattle Times

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

"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