Juggle: meaning, definitions and examples

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juggle

 

[ ˈdʒʌɡəl ]

Verb
Context #1 | Verb

performing tricks

To juggle means to keep several objects in motion in the air by tossing and catching them alternately, typically involving at least three objects. This skill is often associated with clowns and circus performers but can also be a form of entertainment for audiences. Juggling can enhance coordination and focus.

Synonyms

handle, manipulate, toss

Examples of usage

  • He can juggle five balls at once.
  • The performer juggled flaming torches.
  • She learned to juggle while in college.
  • They often juggle while on stage.
  • Juggling requires a lot of practice.
Context #2 | Verb

balancing tasks

To juggle can also refer to the act of managing multiple tasks or responsibilities at the same time, indicating the ability to balance different commitments without letting any of them drop. Many people juggle their work and personal life.

Synonyms

balance, coordinate, manage

Examples of usage

  • She has to juggle her job and her studies.
  • He juggled family responsibilities and work.
  • I often juggle several projects simultaneously.
  • Juggling tasks can be challenging.
  • They juggle various commitments efficiently.

Translations

Translations of the word "juggle" in other languages:

🇵🇹 malabarismo

🇮🇳 जुगलिंग

🇩🇪 jonglieren

🇮🇩 juggling

🇺🇦 жонглювати

🇵🇱 żonglować

🇯🇵 ジャグリング

🇫🇷 jongler

🇪🇸 malabarismo

🇹🇷 jonglörlük

🇰🇷 저글링

🇸🇦 تلاعب

🇨🇿 jonglovat

🇸🇰 žonglovať

🇨🇳 抛接球

🇸🇮 žonglirati

🇮🇸 fleyga

🇰🇿 жонглировать

🇬🇪 ჯონგლიორი

🇦🇿 jonglörlük

🇲🇽 malabarismo

Etymology

The word 'juggle' comes from the Middle English term 'joggel', which is derived from the Old French 'jogler'. The roots of 'jogler' trace back to the Latin word 'ioculari', meaning 'to jest or to joke', indicating a performance element. Initially, juggling was predominantly associated with entertainment in courts and marketplaces, where performers showed off their skills to amuse audiences. The practice of juggling dates back to ancient civilizations, including evidence found in Egyptian tombs. Over time, it evolved into a formalized performance art, taking prominent roles in circuses and variety shows. Today, juggling is not only an entertaining skill but also pursued as a serious sport and art form, with numerous clubs and competitions dedicated to this craft.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #27,097, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.