charleston
n. countablen. a fast, energetic dance from the 1920s. It involves kicking your legs out and moving your arms in a swinging motion.
n. a lively, syncopated ballroom dance characterized by outward heel kicks and a swinging motion of the arms. Often associated with the Jazz Age and the flapper subculture of the 1920s.
The band played a fast song and everyone started dancing the Charleston.
During the themed party, the guests learned how to do the Charleston to the sound of a live brass band.
The Charleston became a cultural phenomenon in the mid-1920s, symbolizing a shift toward more liberated social behaviors and a departure from the rigid formality of Victorian-era dance styles.
From Charles + -ton. The places are named after various men named "Charles"; see definitions below.
Usually used with the definite article ('the Charleston') when referring to the dance style.