trapeze

noun

tra·​peze tra-ˈpēz How to pronounce trapeze (audio)
also trə-
: a gymnastic or acrobatic apparatus consisting of a short horizontal bar suspended by two parallel ropes

Examples of trapeze in a Sentence

performing tricks on the trapeze
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.
The free event will feature trapeze, games, giveaways, art, music and food trucks. — Nikki Dementri, CBS News, 18 June 2026 But its somewhat nonsensical pairings remain, as in a recent episode that featured a trapeze artist duo going up against a trainer doing a dance routine with her dog. — Alli Rosenbloom, CNN Money, 28 Jan. 2026 The program featured stars taking on circus-style performances, often pushing them far outside their comfort zones — including Curtis’ memorable trapeze act. — Virginia Chamlee, PEOPLE, 9 Apr. 2026 During school holidays, Circus Academy New York hosts single-day camps in flying trapeze, trampoline, and stilt walking. — The Editors, Curbed, 16 Apr. 2026 See All Example Sentences for trapeze

Word History

Etymology

French trapèze, literally, trapezoid, from New Latin trapezium

First Known Use

1861, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of trapeze was in 1861

Rhymes for trapeze

See All Rhymes for trapeze

Browse Nearby Words

trapes
trapeze
trapezial
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Trapeze.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/trapeze. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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Kids Definition

trapeze

noun
tra·​peze tra-ˈpēz How to pronounce trapeze (audio)
: a gymnastic or acrobatic device consisting of a short horizontal bar hung from two parallel ropes

More from Merriam-Webster on trapeze

Nglish: Translation of trapeze for Spanish Speakers

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