Equilibrist is a noun that describes a person skilled at balancing. It can be used as a synonym for ‘acrobat,’ or ‘tightrope walker.’

The Latin word aequi (EY kwee) means ‘equal’ or ‘balanced.’ It has given English speakers such words as ‘equality’ and ‘equilibrium,’ a word that refers to, among other things,’ a state of physical balance. You can think of an equilibrist as someone remarkably skilled at keeping their balance — especially at dangerous heights. Here’s an example of equilibrist in use:

I often thought of pursuing a career as an equilibrist. I always could keep my balance even several stories up. Unfortunately, you hardly ever see the phrase ‘tightrope walker wanted’ in the want ads.