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Contortion: meaning, definitions and examples

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contortion

 

[ kənˈtɔːrʃən ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

physical skill

Contortion is the act of twisting and bending the body into unusual shapes. It is often considered a form of physical art or performance, showcasing flexibility and control.

Synonyms

bending, flexibility, twisting

Examples of usage

  • The contortionist amazed the audience with her flexibility.
  • He practiced contortion every day to improve his skills.
  • Contortionists are often featured in circus performances.

Translations

Translations of the word "contortion" in other languages:

🇵🇹 contorção

🇮🇳 contortion

🇩🇪 Verdrehung

🇮🇩 kontorsi

🇺🇦 контркультура

🇵🇱 kontorsja

🇯🇵 曲芸

🇫🇷 contorsion

🇪🇸 contorsión

🇹🇷 bükülme

🇰🇷 왜곡

🇸🇦 التواء

🇨🇿 kontorze

🇸🇰 kontorcia

🇨🇳 扭曲

🇸🇮 kontorzija

🇮🇸 beyging

🇰🇿 бұралу

🇬🇪 გახუნება

🇦🇿 bükülmə

🇲🇽 contorsión

Etymology

The word 'contortion' originated from the Latin word 'contortio', meaning 'twisting' or 'winding'. It formed from the combination of 'con-', meaning 'together', and 'torere', meaning 'to twist'. The term entered English in the mid-17th century, initially used to describe physical distortions or manipulations of the body. Over time, 'contortion' evolved to refer specifically to the performance art that features extreme flexibility and skillful bending of the body, often seen in circus acts and dance performances. The practice itself can be traced back to ancient cultures, where performers demonstrated their abilities in various festivities and entertainments.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #34,462 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.