# tightrope

/ˈtaɪˌtɹoʊp/ (US) · /tˈaɪtɹəʊp/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/tightrope
Updated: 2026-05-30

## Definition

a thin, strong rope stretched between two points. People walk on it for fun or as a performance to show their balance.

For teachers: a slender, taut rope or wire stretched between two supports. Often used as a platform for acrobatic performances or as a metaphor for a precarious situation.

## Examples

- The tightrope walker moves slowly across the high wire.
- The circus performer practiced walking the tightrope for hours to ensure a flawless performance for the audience.
- Balancing on a tightrope requires not only physical coordination but also a mental focus that allows the performer to ignore the height and the movement of the wind.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.