Word
waltz
US/ˈwɔɫs/
UK/wˈɒlts/
Definitions
01the dance
n. a formal ballroom dance where the dancers move in circles to music with three beats.
n. a ballroom dance performed in triple time, characterised by a strong accent on the first beat and a sliding step.
“The couple performed a beautiful waltz at the end of the wedding.”
“The traditional waltz remains a staple of formal European balls, requiring precise footwork and a steady three-quarter rhythm.”
Synonyms
02the music
n. a piece of music written for a waltz dance, usually with a 'one-two-three' rhythm.
n. a musical composition in triple time, typically intended for dancing or written in that style.
“The orchestra played a famous waltz by Strauss.”
“The composer's later works include several melancholic waltzes that subvert the typically cheerful nature of the dance form.”
03to move confidently
v. to walk somewhere quickly and confidently, often without being invited or caring what others think.
v. to move in a brisk, confident, or inappropriately casual manner, often into a space where one is not expected.
“He just waltzed into the office and sat down at the boss's desk.”
“The consultant waltzed into the boardroom as if he owned the company, despite having been hired only forty-eight hours prior.”
Informal
Usage
Often used with 'in', 'into', or 'out of'.
Antonyms
04to succeed easily
v. to finish a task or win a competition very easily.
v. to achieve a goal or complete a task with minimal effort or opposition.
“She waltzed through the exam because she had studied so hard.”
“The incumbent candidate waltzed to victory in the local elections, securing a majority that surprised even his own campaign staff.”
Informal
Usage
Commonly used with 'through' or 'to'.
Synonyms
Real-World Examples
“The Michigan : A half-turning waltz to the left (1, 2, and), then a slow step back right (3), and hold (4).” “Apply for a study visa and you'll be allowed to waltz right into Spain?” Etymology
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.
Scan code
englishreference.com/q/waltz