Bearleap

/ˈbɛɹlip/ noun

Definition

A dialectal or archaic term for a gymnastic movement or jump, possibly named for its resemblance to the powerful leaping motion of a bear.

Etymology

Compound of 'bear' and 'leap,' this appears to be a historical physical training term, though specific origins are unclear; it may reflect historical circus or athletic terminology.

Kelly Says

Many old exercise and gymnastics terms have vanished from common use, replaced by terms like 'cartwheel' or 'backflip,' but 'bearleap' hints at how people once used animal metaphors to describe acrobatic feats in ways that feel fresher and more visual than modern names.

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