dance
/dæns/
NOUN
1. Rhythmic movement to music
A sequence of rhythmic body movements or steps, usually performed to music for artistic expression, entertainment, exercise, or social enjoyment.
1.1. A form of movement or performance
Refers to the physical activity or artistic expression of moving rhythmically, often following music or a choreographed sequence.
Synonyms
Examples
- The flickering candlelight created a magical ambiance for the traditional folk dance.
- The rhythmic beats inspired her to express herself through an improvised solo dance.
Related Words
1.2. A particular style or type of dance
Refers to a specific dance form characterized by its distinctive steps, movements, rhythm, or cultural tradition.
Synonyms
Related Words
NOUN
2. A social gathering for dancing
An organized social event or gathering at which people dance, often accompanied by music and entertainment.
2.1. Social dancing events and celebrations
Refers to a gathering or celebration where dancing is a central activity, such as a formal dance, party, or festive occasion.
Synonyms
- ball
- cotillion
- cotillon
- disco
- formal
- hoedown
- mixer
- prom
- sock hop
Examples
- The lively music invited everyone to join the festive dance in the town square.
- Couples gathered at the ballroom to gracefully dance to the rhythm of the waltz.
Related Words
NOUN
3. The art and practice of dancing
The artistic discipline, profession, or field of study concerned with the creation and performance of rhythmic bodily movements.
3.1. Dance as an artistic discipline
Refers to dancing as a performing art, professional practice, or subject of instruction and study.
Synonyms
- choreography
- dancing
Related Words
- ballet
- choreographer
- dance company
- dance studio
- performance
- rehearsal
NOUN
4. Music composed for dancing
A musical composition or piece characterized by a rhythm or structure intended to accompany a particular dance.
4.1. Dance music and rhythmic compositions
Refers to a piece of music designed for dancing or a modern music genre featuring repetitive beats and rhythmic patterns.
Synonyms
- disco
- dance music
Related Words
NOUN
5. A contest of skill or strategy
A figurative contest or interaction involving cleverness, tactics, or competing strategies, especially between rivals.
5.1. A battle of wits between rivals
Describes a strategic or intellectual exchange in which two opponents respond to each other's moves or tactics.
Synonyms
Related Words
- competition
- rivalry
- strategy
- tactics
- confrontation
VERB
6. To move rhythmically to music
To perform rhythmic steps or bodily movements, especially in time with music.
6.1. Performing rhythmic movements
Describes moving the body in a coordinated or expressive way, usually following the rhythm of music.
Synonyms
Examples
- Couples gathered at the ballroom to gracefully dance to the rhythm of the waltz.
- Children giggled and twirled in the backyard, creating their own spontaneous dance.
Related Words
6.2. Moving lightly, quickly, or playfully
Describes moving with quick, light, nimble, or lively steps, sometimes without being accompanied by music.
Synonyms
Related Words
6.3. Performing a particular dance
Describes executing the steps or movements associated with a specific dance style or choreography.
Synonyms
Related Words
- choreograph
- step
- tap-dance
- two-step
- square dance
6.4. Causing someone or something to move nimbly
Describes making another person or object move lightly, quickly, or energetically, sometimes in a playful or lively manner.
Synonyms
Related Words
- agitate
- bounce
- jostle
- shake
- swing
6.5. Making love or engaging in sexual activity
An informal or euphemistic use of the verb referring to sexual intercourse.
Synonyms
Related Words
- intimacy
- intercourse
- sexual activity