Pilates

noun

Pi·​la·​tes pə-ˈlä-tēz How to pronounce Pilates (audio)
: an exercise regimen that is typically performed on a floor mat or with the use of specialized apparatus and aims to improve flexibility and stability by strengthening the muscles and especially the torso-stabilizing muscles of the abdomen and lower back
Long popular with dancers, Pilates recently has attracted a huge surge of athletes, models, actors and other body-conscious folks.Patricia Hagen
She does intensive Pilates, deep-muscle floor exercises and stretches.Cosmopolitan

Examples of Pilates in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
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The price tag for units starts at $5 million and includes access to a range of amenities such as a library, a fitness center complete with a Pilates and yoga studio, spa center, game room, salon for private events, as well as access to the marina. Martino Carrera, WWD, 16 Jan. 2025 These Women's Pivot Barre Socks from Alo Yoga are great for yoga or Pilates on slippery surfaces like tile floors or carpets. Nora Colomer, Fox News, 11 Jan. 2025 And consider trying new activities like Pilates, kickboxing, rock climbing, hiking or team sports. Alice Callahan, New York Times, 9 Jan. 2025 Some newer concepts include ultraviolet light therapy and more modern versions of Pilates. Allbusiness, Forbes, 9 Jan. 2025 See all Example Sentences for Pilates 

Word History

Etymology

Joseph H. Pilates †1967 U.S. (German-born) fitness instructor

First Known Use

1934, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of Pilates was in 1934

Dictionary Entries Near Pilates

Cite this Entry

“Pilates.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/Pilates. Accessed 23 Jan. 2025.

Medical Definition

Pilates

noun
Pi·​la·​tes pə-ˈlä-tēz How to pronounce Pilates (audio)
: an exercise regimen typically performed with the use of specialized apparatus and designed to improve the overall condition of the body
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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