Gymnast: meaning, definitions and examples

A gymnast is an athlete trained in gymnastics, which includes routines on apparatus like the beam, bars, and vault. This term is often used in the context of competitive sports and training.

• She is a talented gymnast who will compete in the Olympics next year.
• The gymnastics team practiced their routines every day after school.

An acrobat performs physical feats involving balance, agility, and coordination, often in a circus or entertainment setting. Acrobats might perform on trapezes, tightropes, or in tumbling acts.

• The acrobat amazed the audience with her daring flips and jumps.
• Growing up, he dreamed of joining the circus as an acrobat.

A tumbler is someone who performs acrobatic movements, such as flips and rolls, often on the ground. This term can be used in both sports (like gymnastics) and entertainment settings.

• The tumbler executed a series of backflips down the length of the gym.
• During the parade, the tumbler entertained the crowd with his energetic routines.

A contortionist is a performer who excels at bending and flexing their body into unusual and seemingly impossible shapes. This term is most commonly associated with circus performances and variety shows.

• The contortionist twisted her body into positions that seemed to defy the laws of physics.
• At the circus, the contortionist received gasps of amazement from the crowd.