salto mortale

The term "salto mortale" is Italian for "mortal leap," and is used both in acrobatics and figuratively to describe high-risk actions.

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Definition

C1Acrobatics

(technical, sport)A daring mid-air somersault that carries significant risk.

Example

  • The gymnast performed a flawless salto mortale during her routine.

C1General

(figurative)A high-risk or crucial action with potentially severe consequences.

Example

  • Investing all his savings in the startup was a real salto mortale.

Similar

Terms that have similar or relatively close meanings to "salto mortale":

bungee jump