escapologists
Professional restraint evaders
Escapologists are performers who specialize in escaping from restraints—handcuffs, straitjackets, locked containers, or other confining devices.
The term is more common in British English; Americans typically say escape artists.
Harry Houdini remains the most famous practitioner.
Figuratively, an escapologist is someone skilled at evading difficult situations: He's an escapologist when it comes to household chores.
Garment restricting arm movement
- handcuffsLocking wrist restraints
- chainsLinked metal restraints
- padlocksPortable keyed fasteners
- ropesBraided flexible cords
milk can · buried alive · box · trunk · shackles · leg irons · mailbag · straightjacket
Famous escape artist
- straitjacketGarment restricting arm movement
- handcuffsLocking wrist restraints
- chainsLinked metal restraints
- padlocksPortable keyed fasteners
water tank · stage · audience · showmanship · illusion · suspense · dramatic · assistant
Absence of constraint
- liberationRelease from constraint
- constraintsLimits on action
- responsibilitiesDuties one must fulfill
- routineRegular sequence of actions
breaking free · commitments · obligations · boundaries · limitations · avoidance · evasion · fleeing
Opening locks without keys
- dislocatingForcing from proper position
- contortionUnnatural twisting or bending
- flexibilityAbility to adapt easily
- breath controlManaging exhalation deliberately
slipping · wriggling · leverage · practice · precision · dexterity · timing · misdirection
straitjacket
Garment restricting arm movement
ropes · milk can · buried alive · box · trunk · shackles · leg irons · mailbag · straightjacket · tank
Houdini
Famous escape artist
- straitjacketGarment restricting arm movement
- handcuffsLocking wrist restraints
- chainsLinked metal restraints
padlocks · water tank · stage · audience · showmanship · illusion · suspense · dramatic · assistant · timing
freedom
Absence of constraint
- liberationRelease from constraint
- constraintsLimits on action
- responsibilitiesDuties one must fulfill
breaking free · routine · commitments · obligations · boundaries · limitations · avoidance · evasion · fleeing · dodging
lock picking
Opening locks without keys
- dislocatingForcing from proper position
- contortionUnnatural twisting or bending
- flexibilityAbility to adapt easily
breath control · slipping · wriggling · leverage · practice · precision · dexterity · timing · misdirection · preparation
- magicwizard, wand, sorcerer, witchcraft, mage
escapologistsjailers
Those who guard prisoners
prison guards · captors · wardens · imprisoners · guards
escapologistscaptors
Those holding prisoners
imprisoners · slave catchers · bounty hunters · bailiffs · trappers