dance
v. · n.-
1 to move to music (v.) A1 Beginnerto move your body in time with music.
to move the body and feet rhythmically, typically in time to music. Intransitive or transitive depending on whether a specific style is named.
ExampleThe children started to dance as soon as the music began.
ExampleThe couple danced a traditional waltz, moving across the ballroom floor with a grace that suggested years of formal training.
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2 to move lightly (v.) B2 Upper Intermediate Literaryto move quickly and lightly, like light reflecting on water.
to move nimbly, irregularly, or rapidly; often used of inanimate objects or light.
ExampleSunlight danced on the surface of the lake.
ExampleShadows danced across the nursery walls as the wind rattled the old oak tree outside the window.
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3 rhythmic movements (n.) A1 Beginnera series of steps and movements that match the speed of music.
a series of rhythmic steps or movements usually performed to music.
ExampleThey learned a new dance for their friend's wedding.
ExampleThe choreographer spent months refining the modern dance, ensuring every movement conveyed the intended emotional weight.
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4 social event (n.) A2 Elementarya party or social meeting where people go to dance.
a social gathering or formal ball specifically for the purpose of dancing.
ExampleAre you going to the school dance on Friday night?
ExampleThe charity dance raised thousands of pounds, attracting donors from across the county for an evening of jazz and celebration.
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5 the art form (n.) B1 Intermediatethe activity or profession of dancing.
the art, profession, or study of rhythmic movement as a form of expression.
ExampleShe decided to study dance at university.
ExampleCritics praised the production for its innovative fusion of classical dance and contemporary street styles.
- ballet
- performance art
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6 complex interaction (n.) C1 Advanced Literarya situation where two people or groups move or act around each other in a tricky way.
a metaphorical 'battle of wits' or a complex, repetitive social interaction between two parties.
ExampleThe two politicians began a careful dance of words during the debate.
ExampleThe diplomatic dance continued for weeks, with neither nation willing to make the first concession regarding the border dispute.
From Middle English dauncen, from Anglo-Norman dauncer, from Vulgar Latin *dantiāre, of uncertain origin. Displaced Old English sealtian, and partially displaced Old English hlēapan (“to leap, dance, run”) (whence modern leap). Doublet of danza.
Related to dancy, dancetté, French danché.