acrobat
UK: ˈæk.rə.bæt | US: ˈæk.rə.bæt
n. a performer who executes extraordinary feats of balance, agility, and motor coordination, often in a circus or theatrical setting.
acro<high> + bat<walker>
- acro: From Greek akros (high, extreme). In modern usage, it denotes height or extremity (e.g., acrobat, acrophobia).
- bat: From Greek batos (walker, stepper), derived from bainein (to walk). This root appears in words like acrobat and bathysphere (though the latter uses a different sense of depth).
Etymology Origin:
The word acrobat originates from Greek akrobatēs, combining akros (high) and batos (walker). It originally referred to tightrope walkers or performers who moved skillfully at great heights. Over time, it broadened to include any performer demonstrating physical agility, especially in circus arts. The logic is straightforward: "high walker" → "one who performs daring physical feats."
The acrobat balanced effortlessly on the tightrope.
Cirque du Soleil features world-class acrobats in its shows.
The young acrobat trained for years to master the aerial silk routine.
Audiences gasped as the acrobat leaped between swinging trapezes.
In ancient Greece, acrobats entertained crowds at festivals.