# prancing

/ˈpɹænsɪŋ/ (US) · /pɹˈɑːnsɪŋ/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Verb

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/prancing
Updated: 2026-10-18

## Definition

to walk or move with high, lively steps, like a proud horse or a happy child showing off.

For teachers: to move with high, springing steps, often to display energy, pride, or excitement. Applies to horses lifting the forelegs high and to people moving in a showy, strutting manner.

## Examples

- The horse is prancing around the field.
- The little girl keeps prancing around the living room in her new shoes.
- Prancing horses led the parade through the old town, their polished hooves striking the stones in time with the drums.

## Usage notes

- The verb is intransitive and takes no direct object; often followed by 'around' or 'about'.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.