Definition

A type of rope or wire that is stretched tightly, often used in performances where someone walks across it high above the ground.

Example

The performer amazed the audience by walking across the tightwire without any safety equipment.

Conversation

Have you ever seen someone walk on a tightwire?

No, but it sounds really impressive and dangerous!

It is! I can't believe they can balance like that on a tightwire.

I know, right? It's like a whole different level of skill.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Tightwire → The word is formed from "tight" (from Old English *tihht*, meaning firmly held or secure) and "wire" (from Old English *wir*, meaning a slender, flexible strand of metal). The term "tightwire" refers to a wire that is firmly held or stretched tight, often used in the context of tightrope walking.

Memory Tip

Think of something that is 'firmly held' ('tight') and a 'slender strand' ('wire') — together, they create the idea of a tightwire, which is a wire stretched tightly.

Visually Confused Words