Definition

Noun: 1. A calisthenic exercise: An exercise performed by jumping to a position with legs spread wide and hands touching overhead, then returning to a position with feet together and arms at the sides. 2. A toy figure: A plaything consisting of a jointed toy figure, traditionally made of wood, that can be made to dance or move its limbs by pulling a string or manipulating a central stick or crossbar.

Examples

• As an exercise:
  • The fitness instructor started the warm-up with 20 jumping jacks.
  • Doing jumping jacks is a great way to get your heart rate up quickly.
• As a toy:
  • The old-fashioned jumping jack was a popular carnival toy.
  • She pulled the string, and the jumping jack's arms and legs flailed comically.

Advanced Usage

• The term is often used in the plural form ("jumping jacks") when referring to the exercise, as the activity consists of multiple repetitions.
  • My workout includes three sets of 30 jumping jacks.

Variants and Related Words

• Star jump (noun): A common synonym for the exercise "jumping jack," used primarily in British English.
• Side-straddle hop (noun): Another, less common, term for the same calisthenic exercise.

Synonyms

• For the exercise: Star jump, side-straddle hop.
• For the toy: Marionette, puppet (though these are more general terms for string-operated figures).

Notes on Different Meanings

The two primary meanings of "jumping jack" are distinct: 1. The exercise is a common physical activity for warm-ups or cardiovascular fitness. 2. The toy is a traditional novelty item. Context usually makes it clear which meaning is intended (e.g., a gym vs. a toy shop).

Noun

1. plaything consisting of a toy figure with movable joints that can be made to dance by pulling strings