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Risley act

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Ris·​ley act | \ ˈrizlē- \

Definition of Risley act

: a circus act in which an acrobat lying on his back juggles barrels or fellow acrobats with his feet

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History and Etymology for Risley act

after the Risley family, 19th century circus trio consisting of Richard Risley Carlisle †1874 American gymnast and circus performer and his two sons

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Cite this Entry

“Risley act.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/Risley%20act. Accessed 26 Jun. 2022.

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