circus tiger
Big cat act
A circus tiger is a tiger trained to perform in circus acts, typically executing tricks like jumping through hoops or balancing on platforms.
The term evokes both the spectacle of big cats in entertainment and, increasingly, concerns about animal welfare: The circus tiger paced its cage between shows.
Figuratively, it can describe something wild that's been tamed or constrained for others' amusement.
- big catLarge wild feline
- stripedHaving contrasting bands
- trainerOne who conditions others
- lion tamerCircus performer controlling felines
- whipStrikes or aerates
fire hoop · hoop · jump · tamed · roar · cage · ringmaster · performance · mane · claws · fierce · tamer · cracking whip · leaping · spotlight · sawdust · growl · pedestal
ecological role
circus tigerman-eater
Beast that hunts humans
ambush predator · apex predator · natural predator · wild beast