gymnastics

Definition

A sport involving the performance of sequences of movements requiring physical strength, flexibility, and kinesthetic awareness.

Etymology

From gymnastic: see -ics; from Latin gymnasticus, from Ancient Greek γυμναστικός (gumnastikós), from γυμναστής (gumnastḗs, “athlete, gymnast”), from γῠμνᾰ́ζω (gŭmnắzō, “to train, exercise”), from γυμνός (gumnós, “naked”), because Greek athletes trained naked. By surface analysis, gymnast + -ics.

Example Sentences

• "Gymnastics was a significant part of the physical education curriculum."
• "His mental gymnastics are legendary."
• "Her voice swooped and soared as she raced through some double time vocal gymnastics which included a beautifully clear horn impersonation."

Related Words