contortionist

noun

con·​tor·​tion·​ist kən-ˈtȯr-sh(ə-)nist How to pronounce contortionist (audio)
: one who contorts
specifically : an acrobat able to twist the body into unusual postures
contortionistic adjective

Examples of contortionist in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
During the restaurant’s inaugural Sky Lake show, expect to see ballet and contemporary dancers, contortionists, acrobats, musicians, circus and other artists perform around the venue between courses. Natasha Amar, Forbes, 13 Sep. 2024 One doll is a contortionist, while another is an animal tamer. Sarah Kuta, Smithsonian Magazine, 24 Oct. 2024 Improbable poses, struck by working behind the scenes with contortionists, only heighten the palpable tension extended through an unusual use of taxidermy and foreboding landscapes that beg for a moment of release. Francesca Aton, ARTnews.com, 18 Oct. 2024 The two-hour Down The Rabbit Hole production sees singers, dancers, acrobats, aerial artists and contortionists in elaborate costumes perform pop hits by artists like Prince and Kylie Minogue, as well as beloved stage songs, throughout a spectacular evening. Natasha Amar, Forbes, 13 Sep. 2024 See all Example Sentences for contortionist 

Word History

First Known Use

1844, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of contortionist was in 1844

Dictionary Entries Near contortionist

Cite this Entry

“Contortionist.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/contortionist. Accessed 21 Nov. 2024.

Kids Definition

contortionist

noun
con·​tor·​tion·​ist kən-ˈtȯr-sh(ə-)nəst How to pronounce contortionist (audio)
: an acrobat able to twist the body into unusual positions

More from Merriam-Webster on contortionist

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!