gymnastic

1 of 2

adjective

gym·​nas·​tic jim-ˈna-stik 

: of or relating to gymnastics : athletic

gymnastically

jim-ˈna-sti-k(ə-)lē 

adverb

gymnastic

2 of 2

noun

1

gymnastics jim-ˈna-stiks  plural in form but singular in construction

a

: physical exercises designed to develop strength and coordination

b

: a competitive sport in which individuals perform optional and prescribed acrobatic feats mostly on special apparatus in order to demonstrate strength, balance, and body control

2

: an exercise in intellectual or artistic dexterity

my earlier philosophic study had been an intellectual gymnastic

—John Dewey

mental gymnastics

3

: a physical feat or contortion

the gymnastics necessary for the killer to have swung from the fire escape

—E. D. Radin

Examples of gymnastic in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Adjective

Given the complexity and difficulty of gymnastic routines, the twisties are extremely hazardous and can result in serious injury. —Li Zhou, Vox, 3 July 2024

Her gymnastic talent was discovered at a birthday party Rivera's journey into gymnastics began ar an unexpected place: a birthday party. —Maddie Garfinkle, Peoplemag, 1 July 2024

Noun

Here’s a closer look at the U.S. Olympic women’s gymnastics team leotards for the Paris Games. —Rachel G Bowers, USA TODAY, 15 July 2024

That’s the message behind the capsule imagined by Ukrainian jewelry brand and represented by Ukraine’s national rhythmic gymnastics team, which is qualified to take part in the upcoming Games. —Lily Templeton, WWD, 12 July 2024

Word History

First Known Use

Adjective

1574, in the meaning defined above

Noun

1652, in the meaning defined at sense 1a