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
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The photo above shows Tsetseglen Odgerel, 35, one of Mongolia’s most famous contortionists. Cecilia Rodriguez, Forbes.com, 31 Aug. 2025 Host Terry Crews announced that contortionists Unreal, 10-year-old guitarist Bay Melnick Virgolino, and the Leo High School Choir would be moving forward. Raechal Shewfelt, EW.com, 28 Aug. 2025 Water Circus Gold See master jugglers, contortionists, trampoline performers and more at this animal-free circus. Luann Gibbs, The Enquirer, 2 July 2025 The daytime portion promises family-friendly entertainment, boasting over 40 local vendors, jiu-jitsu demonstrations, contortionists, magicians and a drag story hour. Ana Gutierrez Austin American Statesman, Austin American Statesman, 2 July 2025 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

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Cite this Entry

“Contortionist.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/contortionist. Accessed 9 Sep. 2025.

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

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