noun

contortionist

kuhn-TAW-shuh-nihst

Contortionist (noun) means a performer who can bend and twist their body into extreme positions. Example: “The circus contortionist folded herself into a small glass box.”

noun

A performer who can bend and twist their body into extreme positions.

"The circus contortionist folded herself into a small glass box."

"He trained for years to become a professional contortionist."

Someone who twists the meaning of words or arguments to suit themselves.

"The lawyer was a verbal contortionist, spinning every fact in his client's favor."

How to use contortionist

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishSomeone who twists their body — or an argument — into unnatural shapes.

Common pairings

circus contortionist verbal contortionist

Word forms

contortionists plural

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The circus _____ folded herself into a small glass box.

Etymology

Built from contortion (from Latin contortus, "twisted together") plus the agent suffix -ist.

Origin: Latin

Rhymes for contortionist

Zionist arsonist antagonist cartoonist protagonist illusionist tobacconist abolitionist receptionist nutritionist exhibitionist perfectionist

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Frequently asked questions

What does “contortionist” mean?

The word “contortionist” means a performer who can bend and twist their body into extreme positions. In plain terms, someone who twists their body — or an argument — into unnatural shapes.

How do you pronounce “contortionist”?

“Contortionist” is pronounced kuhn-TAW-shuh-nihst (/kənˈtɔː(ɹ)ʃənɪst/ in IPA).

How do you use “contortionist” in a sentence?

Here is “contortionist” used in a sentence: “The circus contortionist folded herself into a small glass box.”

What part of speech is “contortionist”?

“Contortionist” is a noun.

Where does the word “contortionist” come from?

The word “contortionist” comes from Latin. Built from contortion (from Latin contortus, "twisted together") plus the agent suffix -ist.

How many meanings does “contortionist” have?

“Contortionist” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: a performer who can bend and twist their body into extreme positions.