legerdemain
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leg·er·de·main

noun \ˌle-jər-də-ˈmān\

Definition of LEGERDEMAIN

2
: a display of skill or adroitness

Examples of LEGERDEMAIN

  1. <the illusionist's show is an entertaining blend of legerdemain and over-the-top showmanship>
  2. <the reduction of the deficit is due in part to financial legerdemain that masks the true costs of running the government>

Origin of LEGERDEMAIN

Middle English, from Middle French leger de main light of hand
First Known Use: 15th century

Other Performing Arts Terms

diva, dramaturgy, loge, prestidigitation, proscenium, supernumerary, zany

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