Spread eagle meaning

"Spread eagle" means to be in a full body horizontal position with arms and legs extended outwards.


Spread eagle definitions

Word backwards daerps elgae
Part of speech The part of speech of the word "spread eagle" can be a noun or a verb. As a noun, it refers to a posture in which a person lies face down with arms and legs stretched out horizontally. As a verb, it means to stretch out with arms and legs extended horizontally, or to expose or display something in a vulnerable or defenseless position.
Syllabic division spread ea-gle
Plural The plural of spread eagle is spread eagles.
Total letters 11
Vogais (2) e,a
Consonants (6) s,p,r,d,g,l

Spread eagle is a term that refers to a position where a person's arms and legs are stretched out as far as possible, creating an image similar to an eagle in flight. This position is commonly used in various contexts, including dance, yoga, gymnastics, and even as a metaphor for vulnerability or exposure.

Origin and Meaning

The term "spread eagle" is believed to have originated in the late 18th century and is derived from the way an eagle's wings and legs are extended when in flight. The imagery of an eagle soaring high in the sky with its wings spread wide has connotations of freedom, power, and majesty.

Usage in Dance and Gymnastics

In dance and gymnastics, the spread eagle position is often used to showcase flexibility, strength, and control. Dancers and gymnasts may perform movements or poses that involve stretching their limbs out to the sides or above their heads in a spread eagle position, creating visually striking and impressive displays of athleticism.

Metaphorical Meaning

Besides its physical use in performance arts, the spread eagle position can also be interpreted metaphorically. Being in a spread eagle position can symbolize vulnerability, exposure, or being caught off guard. It can represent a state of openness or defenselessness, depending on the context in which it is used.

In conclusion, spread eagle is a versatile term that can evoke different meanings and interpretations depending on the context in which it is used. Whether in dance, gymnastics, or as a metaphor for vulnerability, the spread eagle position remains a powerful and visually captivating image.


Spread eagle Examples

  1. She was found spread eagle on the beach, enjoying the warm sun.
  2. The gymnast performed a perfect spread eagle during her routine.
  3. The skydiver spread eagle as she fell through the sky.
  4. The eagle spread its wings wide as it soared through the air.
  5. He tripped and fell, landing spread eagle on the ground.
  6. The yoga instructor demonstrated the spread eagle pose to the class.
  7. The cat sprawled out on the carpet, legs spread eagle.
  8. The snow angel's arms and legs were spread eagle in the fresh powder.
  9. The dancer leaped into the air, arms and legs extended in a spread eagle position.
  10. The bug lay belly up, legs spread eagle in the air.


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  • Updated 23/06/2024 - 05:10:48