pole-jumping
Definition
Noun (uncountable):
A sport or athletic event in which a competitor uses a long, flexible pole to propel themselves over a high bar, typically landing on a cushioned mat. It is synonymous with "pole vaulting."
Usage Examples
- (The athletic event using a pole to clear a bar.)
- (The specific area for the sport.)
Advanced Usage
"pole-jumping technique": the method of using the pole to gain height and clear the bar.
- His pole-jumping technique improved after working with a coach. (The specific way he performs the jump.)
"pole-jumping record": the best performance in the sport, measured by height cleared.
- The world pole-jumping record has been broken several times this decade. (The highest jump ever achieved.)
Variants and Related Words
Pole-jumper (noun): an athlete who participates in pole-jumping.
- The pole-jumper cleared six meters in the final round. (The competitor.)
Pole-vaulting (noun): the more common term for the same sport.
- Pole-vaulting and pole-jumping are often used interchangeably. (Synonymous terms.)
Synonyms
- Pole vault: the standard name for the event.
- Vaulting: a general term for jumping over an obstacle with assistance.
Related Idioms
"Clear the bar": to succeed in pole-jumping by not knocking the bar down.
- He cleared the bar on his first attempt. (Succeeded in the jump.)
"Raise the bar": to set a higher standard or goal, often used figuratively but derived from the sport.
- Her performance raised the bar for future pole-jumpers. (Set a new, higher standard.)