rope-dancer

A rope-dancer performs a graceful pirouette high above the circus floor.

Definition

Noun: A "rope-dancer" is a performer who walks, dances, or performs acrobatic feats on a tightrope or slack rope, typically as part of a circus or entertainment show.

Usage Examples

• (A performer walking on a rope in a circus.)
• (A person who performs acrobatics on a rope.)

Advanced Usage

• "to act like a rope-dancer": to move with extreme caution or precarious balance.
  • He walked along the narrow ledge like a rope-dancer, carefully placing each step. (To move with great care and balance, as if on a tightrope.)

Variants and Related Words

• Rope-walker (n): a synonym for rope-dancer, often used interchangeably.
  • The rope-walker amazed the audience with his daring stunts. (A performer on a rope.)
• Tightrope (n): the rope or wire used by a rope-dancer for performance.
  • The rope-dancer stepped onto the tightrope and began her routine. (The specific type of rope used in such acts.)

Synonyms

• Acrobat: a performer of gymnastic feats, often including rope-dancing.
• Tightrope walker: a more specific term for a rope-dancer who walks on a tightrope.

Related Idioms

• "walk a tightrope": to be in a situation where one must act very carefully to avoid failure or disaster.
  • The politician is walking a tightrope between different interest groups. (Navigating a delicate situation, like a rope-dancer balancing on a rope.)