In circus slang, a kinker is a performer — the folks who actually do the acts: acrobats, clowns, aerialists, contortionists, tightrope walkers.
In circus slang, a kinker is a performer — the folks who actually do the acts: acrobats, clowns, aerialists, contortionists, tightrope walkers. It's insider terminology from the travelling circus world, used by the performers themselves and the people who run the show. The name likely relates to the bending, twisting, and contorting that so many circus acts require. It's an affectionate piece of professional jargon that gives a window into the colourful language of the big-top world.
The kinkers were still rehearsing their aerial act at midnight, long after the crowds had gone home.
Add your own interpretation of "kinker".
Regional slang from around the English-speaking world — British, Australian, Irish, Caribbean, Nigerian, Filipino, AAVE, and the hyphenated-English dialects that make the internet sound local.
See all Regional & Other slang on Slangora.
Browse all slang words starting with K.
(slang) A person who derives pleasure from kicks (thrills).
A traveling company of performers that may include acrobats, clowns, trained animals, and other novelty acts, that gives shows usually in a circular tent.
(slang) A contemptible person or thing.
(mining, Scottish) A hand-operated jumper.
No comments yet — say something.
(circus, slang) A performer in a circus.
No comments yet — say something.