gymnast

noun

gym·​nast ˈjim-ˌnast How to pronounce gymnast (audio)
-nəst
Synonyms of gymnastnext
: a person trained in gymnastics

Examples of gymnast in a Sentence

the years of training required to become a champion gymnast
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Olivia Dunne had one of the biggest social media followings of any collegiate athlete during her time as a star gymnast for the LSU Tigers, which won a national championship during her tenure. Ryan Gaydos, FOXNews.com, 8 Dec. 2025 During their time aboard the vessels, the baseball player and former gymnast connected with more than 1,300 sailors while learning about the ships’ missions, operations and life aboard the Navy’s most advanced aircraft carrier. Skyler Caruso, PEOPLE, 4 Dec. 2025 Outside of a stretch routine suitable for an Olympic gymnast, India Bradley maintains consistency in her self-care habits. Malik Peay, Essence, 4 Dec. 2025 Gary Sladek started down this path in the mid-1970s as an all-American gymnast who went to college to become a gym teacher, but took a detour and joined the circus. Kirk Kenney, San Diego Union-Tribune, 28 Nov. 2025 See All Example Sentences for gymnast

Word History

Etymology

Middle French gymnaste, from Greek gymnastēs trainer, from gymnazein

First Known Use

1594, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of gymnast was in 1594

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Gymnast.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/gymnast. Accessed 11 Dec. 2025.

Kids Definition

gymnast

noun
gym·​nast ˈjim-ˌnast How to pronounce gymnast (audio)
-nəst
: a person who is skilled in gymnastics

More from Merriam-Webster on gymnast

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!