Dance
/dæns/
Definitions
2 meaningsTo move one's body in a rhythmic way, usually to music, often following set steps or patterns.
/dæns/
To move rhythmically to music, typically following a set sequence of steps.
She loves to dance at parties.
💡 Simply: Like moving your body in a fun way with music! Think of wiggling and twirling to your favorite song.
👶 For kids: To move your body to music!
More Examples
He danced with his girlfriend all evening.
We learned to dance the salsa at a local studio.
The children danced around the maypole.
How It's Used
"The ballet dancers practiced for hours."
"They danced the night away at the wedding reception."
A series of steps and movements performed to music.
/dæns/
A series of rhythmic steps and movements, usually performed to music.
The school is holding a dance next Friday.
💡 Simply: It's like a special way to move your body, often with music, like a ballet or a fun party dance!
👶 For kids: Moving your body in a special way to music!
More Examples
She took a dance class to improve her skills.
Their favorite form of art is dance.
The dance was a huge success, with everyone having a great time.
How It's Used
"Ballet is a form of dance."
"The dance was a great success."
Idioms & expressions
dance to someone's tune
To do what someone else wants you to do, often unwillingly.
"The employees felt they had to dance to the manager's tune to keep their jobs."
cut a rug
To dance energetically.
"He was really cutting a rug at the party!"
From Old French *dancier*, likely from a Germanic source. The ultimate origin may be related to the Old High German *danzōn* (to dance), though the exact path is debated.
Historically, 'dance' referred to various forms of rhythmic movement and social interaction, evolving from ritualistic practices to entertainment.
Memory tip
Imagine your feet are dancing shoes, and the music's your guide!
Word Origin
"To move one's feet in a rhythmic way"