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Definition of contortionist

contortionist

/kənˈtɔːrʃənɪst/
con · tor · tion · ist
Plural:contortionists
•
Adjective:contortionistic
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contortionist Lexical Profile

contortionist Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

An entertainer or acrobat who twists and bends their body into unusual and seemingly impossible positions.

Example

"The circus audience gasped as the contortionist folded herself neatly inside a small glass box."

2

A person who twists facts, language, or logic in an extreme or convoluted manner to suit their own purpose.

Example

"Critics accused the spokesperson of being a rhetorical contortionist to defend the controversial policy."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for contortionist

• Rhymes for contortionist

• Nearby Words

contorted
contortion
contortionism
contortionist
contour
contoured
contouring

Word Origin & Etymology

Formed in the mid-19th century from 'contortion' and the agentive suffix '-ist'. 'Contortion' derives from the Latin 'contortionem' (a twisting), from the past participle stem of 'contorquere' (to twist or whirl together).

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Contortionist. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/contortionist
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