What does somersault mean?
A somersault is a complete rotation of the body through the air, normally with the head moving downward and the feet passing over it. The movement is associated with gymnastics, diving, acrobatics, circus performance, and similar activities, in which controlled rotation and a precise landing are important. The word can also be used as a verb: a person somersaults, and a figuratively described organization or individual performs a “somersault” by suddenly reversing direction. These figurative expressions are especially frequent in political reporting, where “a political somersault” suggests that a person has changed position or allegiance in a striking or potentially cynical way. Although the literal action can involve any full body rotation, it is often understood specifically as a head-over-heels movement. The word is both precise and vivid, making it useful when describing athletic performance as well as dramatic changes of attitude or policy.
An acrobatic movement in which the body rotates completely through the air, usually passing head over heels.
"The gymnast landed a double somersault on the mat."
Also used figuratively for a sudden, conspicuous, and complete reversal of direction, opinion, or allegiance.
To rotate the body completely through the air, or to make a sudden and complete reversal.
"The children somersaulted down the grassy slope."
The figurative use is especially common in political and journalistic contexts.
The plural is used for individual rotations or performed movements.
"The dancer completed four somersaults during the routine."
A somersault can mean a gymnast's head-over-heels rotation or a dramatic, complete change of position, opinion, or allegiance.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does somersault come from?
English borrowed the word from French, where the name developed from elements associated with turning and leaping. Its historical components ultimately relate to Latin words for a turning motion and a jump, reflecting the compound idea of turning the body through the air. The word entered English in forms referring to acrobatic tumbling and was later extended to figurative reversals.
Related word forms
How somersault is actually used
The literal sense is associated with gymnastics, diving, acrobatics, and similar physical activities. The figurative sense is common in journalism and political commentary, where it emphasizes an abrupt, conspicuous, and often ironic reversal.
Easily confused with somersault
A somersault is a complete rotation in which the body passes head over heels, whereas a summerset is traditionally a leap in which the performer crosses the legs and turns the body.