waltz

n. countable

B2 Upper Intermediate US //ˈwɔɫs// UK //wˈɒlts// waltz

Informal

Definition

n. a formal dance for two people that uses smooth, circular movements. It follows a regular rhythm of three beats.

n. a ballroom dance in triple time performed by couples, who as a pair turn rhythmically round and round as they progress around the dance floor.

SIMPLE

The couple danced a slow waltz at their wedding.

CONTEXTUAL

The orchestra began to play a famous waltz, and several couples moved gracefully onto the dance floor.

COMPLEX

The traditional Viennese waltz is characterized by its rapid tempo and constant rotation, requiring significant stamina and precise footwork from both partners to maintain the flow.

Origin

From German Walzer, from walzen (“to dance”), from Old High German walzan (“to turn”), from Proto-Germanic walt- (“to turn”), from Proto-Indo-European welH- (“to turn”). Doublet of valse. More at *waltaną.

Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.

Usage

Commonly used with the verb 'to dance' or 'to play'.

Last updated May 6, 2026