gymnast

noun

gym·​nast ˈjim-ˌnast How to pronounce gymnast (audio)
-nəst
Synonyms of gymnastnext
: a person trained in gymnastics

Synonyms of gymnast

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Examples of gymnast in a Sentence

the years of training required to become a champion gymnast
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Pilates was originally created by Joseph Pilates, who was a gymnast and a boxer. — Anna Cafolla, Vogue, 12 Aug. 2026 Gleason’s Gymnastic School in Eagan is celebrating its 60th anniversary since its founding by gymnast Larry Gleason, now 85 years old. — Jared Kaufman, Twin Cities, 12 Aug. 2026 Current leader, Claire Pease, was the last of the top gymnasts to finish the rotation. — Caroline Price, Forbes.com, 9 Aug. 2026 Why were an ex-gymnast and an ex-swimmer taking a stand against trans athletes at a basketball game with no trans women playing in it, in a league that has never included any trans women players? — Leah Asmelash, CNN Money, 7 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for gymnast

Word History

Etymology

Middle French gymnaste, from Greek gymnastēs trainer, from gymnazein

First Known Use

1594, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of gymnast was in 1594

Browse Nearby Words

gymnasium
gymnast
gymnastic
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Gymnast.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/gymnast. Accessed 19 Aug. 2026.

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Kids Definition

gymnast

noun
gym·​nast ˈjim-ˌnast How to pronounce gymnast (audio)
-nəst
: a person who is skilled in gymnastics

More from Merriam-Webster on gymnast

Nglish: Translation of gymnast for Spanish Speakers

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