trapeze

noun

tra·​peze tra-ˈpēz How to pronounce trapeze (audio)
 also  trə-
: a gymnastic or acrobatic apparatus consisting of a short horizontal bar suspended by two parallel ropes

Examples of trapeze in a Sentence

performing tricks on the trapeze
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.
Sitting with that discomfort is a more intense experience than the trapeze act of most television one-take feats — these characters can’t walk away from their situation, and neither can the viewer. — Fran Hoepfner, Vulture, 18 Mar. 2025 What convinces the Jamaican transplant, though, is seeing a performer (Jessica Reeve) do a trapeze act and cast the whole room under her spell. — Sarah Shachat, IndieWire, 1 Mar. 2025 These materials are transformed into oversized strapless trapeze gowns, sleek kaftans, and elegant column dresses, evoking the glamour that has always been central to the brand's design ethos. — Felicity Carter, Forbes, 3 Mar. 2025 In one day alone, the actor wore five separate outfits—ranging from a sensational Alexander McQueen shearling coat to a mod Celine skirt suit and a brown leather Loewe trapeze jacket. — Hannah Jackson, Vogue, 14 Feb. 2025 See All Example Sentences for trapeze

Word History

Etymology

French trapèze, literally, trapezoid, from New Latin trapezium

First Known Use

1861, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of trapeze was in 1861

Rhymes for trapeze

See All Rhymes for trapeze

Browse Nearby Words

trapes
trapeze
trapezial
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Trapeze.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/trapeze. Accessed 27 Mar. 2025.

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Kids Definition

trapeze

noun
tra·​peze tra-ˈpēz How to pronounce trapeze (audio)
: a gymnastic or acrobatic device consisting of a short horizontal bar hung from two parallel ropes

More from Merriam-Webster on trapeze

Nglish: Translation of trapeze for Spanish Speakers

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