gym·nas·tics
gymnastics
- pronunciation:
- jIm
nae
stihks
- features:
- Word History, Word Explorer
| part of speech: |
noun |
| definition 1: |
(used with a pl. verb) physical exercises used to develop and demonstrate muscular strength, agility, and control, esp. with the aid of special equipment such as the parallel bars, the horse, and the high bar.
- similar words:
- tumble
|
| definition 2: |
(used with a sing. verb) the competitive sports based on such exercises.
|
| definition 3: |
(used with a pl. verb) any mental or physical feat requiring skill.
He had to perform certain verbal gymnastics to win the debate. |
| related words: |
exercise |
Gymnastics is from an ancient Greek word that means "to train or exercise naked."