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
1
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."
2
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 notesIn plain EnglishSomeone who twists their body — or an argument — into unnatural shapes.
Common pairings
circus contortionist
verbal contortionist
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Word forms
- Plural
- contortionists
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
The circus _____ folded herself into a small glass box.
Etymology
Built from contortion (from Latin contortus, "twisted together") plus the agent suffix -ist.
Rhymes for contortionist
Zionist
arsonist
antagonist
cartoonist
saxophonist
protagonist
illusionist
tobacconist
abolitionist
receptionist
nutritionist
exhibitionist
See all rhymes for contortionist →
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.
