Definition

Noun: 1. A piece of gymnastic equipment: A trampoline is a device consisting of a strong, flexible sheet (often made of canvas or synthetic material) that is attached by many springs to a sturdy circular or rectangular metal frame. It is designed so that people can jump on it, being propelled high into the air by the springs and the sheet's elasticity.

Usage

The word "trampoline" is used to refer to the physical apparatus itself. It is commonly associated with recreational bouncing, gymnastics, training, and fitness. It functions as a count noun (e.g., a trampoline, two trampolines).

Examples

• The children spent the afternoon bouncing on the trampoline in the backyard.
• Acrobats use a trampoline to perform impressive flips and twists.
• Safety nets are often installed around a trampoline to prevent falls.
• He set up the new trampoline according to the manufacturer's instructions.

Advanced Usage

• "to trampoline" (verb, informal): The noun is sometimes used informally as a verb meaning to jump on a trampoline or to rebound in a similar manner.
  • The kids love to trampoline for hours.
  • The ball trampolined off the wall.

Variants and Related Words

• Mini-trampoline / Rebounder (n): A small, low-to-the-ground trampoline typically used for aerobic exercise or physical therapy.
• Trampolining (n): The sport or activity of performing acrobatic exercises on a trampoline.
• Trampolinist (n): An athlete who specializes in the sport of trampolining.

Synonyms

• Springboard: While a springboard is also a flexible board used for jumping, it is typically fixed at one end and used for diving or vaulting, not for continuous bouncing.
• Bouncer (informal, for a child's toy): A small, often inflatable bouncing toy for young children.

Related Phrases and Idioms

• Trampoline effect: A metaphorical phrase describing a situation where something declines sharply and then recovers or rebounds with equal force.
  • After the scandal, the company's stock price experienced a trampoline effect, dropping and then bouncing back to a new high.

Noun

1. gymnastic apparatus consisting of a strong canvas sheet attached with springs to a metal frame; used for tumbling