tumbling
UK: ˈtʌmblɪŋ | US: ˈtʌmblɪŋ
n. the act of falling or rolling end over end
vi. the action of performing acrobatic rolls or somersaults
adj. moving or falling in a rolling, uncontrolled manner
The word "tumbling" derives from the Middle English "tumblen," which originally meant "to dance or perform acrobatics," influenced by Old French "tomber" (to fall). The root "tumble" reflects the motion of falling or rolling, while the suffix "-ing" turns it into a noun or adjective describing the action. Over time, "tumbling" became associated with gymnastic movements and uncontrolled falling, retaining its core idea of dynamic, rolling motion.
The child laughed while tumbling down the grassy hill.
Gymnasts practice tumbling to improve their agility.
A stack of books came tumbling off the shelf.
The river’s tumbling waters carved through the canyon.
He injured his ankle during a tumbling routine.