tumbler
UK: ˈtʌmblə | US: ˈtʌmblər
n. a drinking glass with no handle or stem
n. a person who performs acrobatic rolls or somersaults
n. a part of a lock mechanism that moves to release the bolt
tumbler = tumble<to fall or roll> + er<agent noun suffix>
- tumble: From Middle English tumben, meaning "to fall or roll clumsily," derived from Old English tumbian (to dance or jump). The sense evolved to include acrobatic movements and uncontrolled rolling.
- er: A suffix denoting a person or thing associated with an action (e.g., "dancer," "maker").
Etymology Origin:
The word tumbler originally referred to a performer who executed acrobatic rolls or somersaults (early 14th century). By the 17th century, it was applied to drinking glasses—likely because early glasses had rounded bottoms, causing them to "tumble" unless held upright. The lock mechanism sense (18th century) derives from the part's pivoting or "tumbling" motion.
The circus tumbler amazed the audience with a series of flips.
She filled the tumbler with ice and lemonade.
The lock’s tumbler was jammed, preventing the key from turning.
He accidentally knocked over the tumbler, spilling water everywhere.
Modern tumblers often have insulated designs to keep drinks cold.