calisthenics

noun

cal·​is·​then·​ics ˌka-ləs-ˈthe-niks 

plural in form but singular or plural in construction

1

: systematic rhythmic bodily exercises performed usually without apparatus

2

usually singular in construction : the art or practice of calisthenics

Examples of calisthenics in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

After their meal, pollywogs did calisthenics and the initiation continued. —Staff Author, Peoplemag, 25 Jan. 2023

In fact, that woman’s reaction is part of what Morgan wanted to evoke through cannabis calisthenics — and why 90 percent of her clients are women. —Joel Stein, The Hollywood Reporter, 29 Jan. 2023

Another year, another casual calisthenics lesson from Cam’ron, the last avatar of the intricately economical style that dominated Harlem rap in the ’90s and remains staggering to observe. —Lindsay Zoladz, New York Times, 7 Dec. 2022

For me, the next goal is to conquer calisthenics and keep getting stronger. —Jesse Hicks, Men's Health, 4 Nov. 2022

Word History

Etymology

Greek kalos beautiful + sthenos strength

First Known Use

1827, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

calisthenics

singular or plural noun

cal·​is·​then·​ics ˌkal-əs-ˈthen-iks 

1

: exercises to develop strength and flexibility that are done without special equipment

2

: the art or practice of calisthenics

calisthenic

-ik

adjective

Etymology

from Greek kalos "beautiful" and sthenos "strength"

Word Origin

The benefits that exercise can have for both strength and looks are suggested by the origin of the word calisthenics. Calisthenics was made by joining the Greek kalos, meaning "beautiful," and sthenos, meaning "strength." The word was originally used to refer to exercises done by young women, but it later gained the more general meaning that we now know.

Medical Definition

calisthenics

noun, plural in form but singular or plural in construction

cal·​is·​then·​ics

variants or British callisthenics

-iks 

1

: systematic rhythmic bodily exercises performed usually without apparatus

2

usually singular in construction : the art or practice of calisthenics