parallel bars
noun
(used with a plural verb)
a gymnasium apparatus consisting of two wooden bars on uprights, adjustable in height, and used for swinging, vaulting, balancing exercises, etc.
(used with a singular or plural verb)
a competitive event for men on such an apparatus.
Origin of parallel bars
First recorded in 1865–70
Words nearby parallel bars
British Dictionary definitions for parallel bars
parallel bars
pl n
gymnastics
- (functioning as plural) a pair of wooden bars on uprights, sometimes at different heights, for various exercises
- (functioning as singular) an event in a gymnastic competition in which competitors exercise on such bars