What does "pas" mean?

1. (a dance step) a single step or a specific movement in a dance, especially in ballet. 2. (social precedence) the right to go first or be treated as more important than others because of your rank.

pas

US //ˈpɑz// UK //pˈæs// pas

1 a dance step (n.)
C1 Advanced Formal Theatre

a single step or a specific movement in a dance, especially in ballet.

a step or movement in a dance, particularly a formalised movement in classical ballet.

Example

The dancer performed a graceful pas across the stage during the solo.

Example

The choreographer demanded a more precise execution of the pas, insisting that the dancers maintain perfect alignment during the transition.
- step
- movement
2 social precedence (n.)
C2 Proficiency Archaic Formal Politics

the right to go first or be treated as more important than others because of your rank.

the right of precedence or the privilege of going foremost in a social or political hierarchy.

Example

In the old court, the duke always had the pas over the count.

Example

The dispute over who should take the pas at the state dinner reflected deeper tensions within the diplomatic corps.

Last updated June 20, 2026