# waltz

/ˈwɔɫs/ (US) · /wˈɒlts/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/waltz
Updated: 2026-08-08

## Senses

### 1. the dance

noun · CEFR B2

a formal ballroom dance where the dancers move in circles to music with three beats.

For teachers: 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.

### 2. the music

noun · CEFR B2

a piece of music written for a waltz dance, usually with a 'one-two-three' rhythm.

For teachers: 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.

### 3. to move confidently

verb · CEFR C1 · Informal

to walk somewhere quickly and confidently, often without being invited or caring what others think.

For teachers: 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.

Usage: Often used with 'in', 'into', or 'out of'.

### 4. to succeed easily

verb · CEFR C1 · Informal

to finish a task or win a competition very easily.

For teachers: 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.

Usage: Commonly used with 'through' or 'to'.

## Examples

- The couple danced a slow waltz at their wedding.
- The orchestra began to play a famous waltz, and several couples moved gracefully onto the dance floor.
- 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.

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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.