Stunt Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

๐ŸŽฌ
Add to dictionary

stunt

[stสŒnt ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

movie industry

A performance of stunts in a film, television show, or live event, typically involving dangerous or daring feats.

Synonyms

exploit, feat, trick.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
stunt

Often used to describe a daring or dangerous action performed mainly to entertain people or show off skills. Commonly found in contexts involving extreme sports or movies.

  • The motorcycle stunt was the highlight of the show.
  • He performed a dangerous stunt for the action movie.
feat

Used to describe an extraordinary act or accomplishment that requires significant skill, strength, or courage. Often used in a positive sense.

  • Climbing Mount Everest is a remarkable feat.
  • The engineer's new invention was a feat of ingenuity.
trick

Commonly refers to a clever or deceitful action, often used for amusement or deception. It can be used in both positive and negative contexts.

  • He showed me a card trick that left everyone amazed.
  • The magician's tricks were the best part of the performance.
exploit

Refers to a notable or heroic act often involving bravery or significant achievement. It can also have a negative connotation when talking about taking selfish advantage of a situation.

  • Her exploits during the expedition were remarkable.
  • Critics accused the company of exploiting workers.

Examples of usage

  • The actor performed all his own stunts in the action movie.
  • The stunt double was hired to perform the dangerous motorcycle jump.
Context #2 | Noun

attention-seeking behavior

An attention-seeking or showy act or maneuver intended to attract notice or impress others.

Synonyms

display, gimmick, show.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
stunt

This is a repeat of the first word in the list. Please refer back to the earlier example for its context and usage.

show

This word is a general term used to describe a performance or presentation meant to entertain. It can refer to anything from a TV program to a live theater performance.

  • We went to see a comedy show last night.
  • The TV show has millions of viewers every week.
display

This word is used to describe something that is shown or presented to others, often in a formal or planned manner. It's commonly used in contexts like exhibitions or to show emotions.

  • The museum had a beautiful display of ancient artifacts.
  • Her display of kindness touched everyone.
gimmick

This word refers to a trick or device used to attract attention, publicity, or business. It often carries a negative connotation, implying that the trick lacks real value.

  • The company's latest promotional gimmick failed to boost sales.
  • The magician's act was full of cheap gimmicks.

Examples of usage

  • His attempt to jump off the roof was just a stunt to get attention.
  • She pulled a stunt by dyeing her hair bright pink.
Context #3 | Verb

performing a trick

To perform a daring or dangerous feat, especially for entertainment purposes.

Synonyms

execute, perform, show off.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
stunt

Used when talking about a daring action or trick, often done for entertainment or to attract attention.

  • He performed a dangerous stunt for the movie
  • The stunt he pulled off on his skateboard was amazing
perform

Appropriate for general actions or tasks, especially when talking about doing something in front of an audience.

  • The band will perform at the concert tonight
  • She performs her duties diligently
execute

Suitable for formal or detailed actions, often when precision and skills are required. It can also imply following orders or a pre-planned script.

  • The chef executed the recipe perfectly
  • She executed her dance routine flawlessly
show off

Usually used in a negative sense when someone is trying to attract attention or impress others, often seen as boasting.

  • He bought the sports car just to show off
  • She always shows off her expensive clothes

Examples of usage

  • The daredevil stuntman will stunt jump over a row of cars.
  • She stunted on the skateboard by performing flips and spins.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Film and Television

  • Stunts are often performed by professionals called stunt doubles, who resemble the actors and perform dangerous actions for them.
  • The Academy Awards introduced the Best Stunt Coordination category in 2021, recognizing the artistry and skill of stunt professionals.
  • In action movies, stunts can include car chases, falls from heights, and fight scenes, all choreographed to ensure safety.

Sports

  • In sports like skateboarding and gymnastics, stunts are key for competitions, where athletes perform tricks to impress judges and audiences.
  • Extreme sports often include daring stunts like base jumping or parkour, pushing the limits of human ability.
  • Stunt performances in sports require intense training and practice to minimize risks and maximize thrill.

Safety and Risk

  • Stunts can be dangerous, so safety equipment like helmets and pads are used to protect those performing them.
  • The planning of a stunt involves thorough risk assessment to ensure the safety of everyone involved, from the performer to the camera crew.
  • While stunts look effortless, they often take multiple attempts to perfect, highlighting a performerโ€™s dedication and skill.

Origin of 'stunt'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'stunt' comes from the Middle English word 'stunten,' meaning to stop or hinder, showing that it's about stopping from normal actions to do something extraordinary.
  • In the late 19th century, it evolved to mean a spectacular action performed by actors or performers.

The word 'stunt' originated in the mid-19th century, derived from the dialectal German word 'stunten' meaning 'to stumble'. Originally used in the context of horseback riding to describe a trick or feat that was performed, it later expanded to encompass daring or attention-seeking acts in various fields such as entertainment and sports.


See also: stuntman, stunts.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #19,058, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.