dance
dahns
Dance (verb) means to move the body in a rhythmic way, usually in time with music. Example: “Everyone at the party got up to dance when their favourite song came on.”
verb
1
To move the body in a rhythmic way, usually in time with music.
"Everyone at the party got up to dance when their favourite song came on."
"They danced all night at the wedding."
"She learned to dance the tango in Buenos Aires."
2
To move lightly and quickly, in a way that resembles dancing.
"Flames danced in the fireplace while we sat and talked quietly."
"Her eyes danced with excitement as she opened the present."
"Light danced across the surface of the lake."
noun
1
A form of movement performed to music, or an event where people dance together.
"The first dance at their wedding was slow and very sweet."
"We joined a Saturday class to learn a new dance together."
"The school dance is next Friday."
How to use dance
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishTo move rhythmically to music, or a social event built around that.
Easily confused with
Common pairings
dance to the music
go to a dance
dance floor
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Word forms
- Plural
- dances
- Third person singular
- dances
- Past tense
- danced
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
Everyone at the party got up to _____ when their favourite song came on.
Etymology
From Anglo-Norman dauncer, ultimately from an uncertain Vulgar Latin root; it replaced the earlier Old English word for dancing, sealtian.
Synonyms
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Rhymes for dance
See all rhymes for dance →Frequently asked questions
What does “dance” mean?
The word “dance” means to move the body in a rhythmic way, usually in time with music. In plain terms, to move rhythmically to music, or a social event built around that.
How do you pronounce “dance”?
“Dance” is pronounced dahns (/dæns/ in IPA).
How do you use “dance” in a sentence?
Here is “dance” used in a sentence: “They danced all night at the wedding.”
What is another word for “dance”?
Words with a similar meaning to “dance” include get some and have sex.
What part of speech is “dance”?
Depending on how it is used, “dance” can be a verb and a noun.
Where does the word “dance” come from?
The word “dance” comes from Vulgar Latin. From Anglo-Norman dauncer, ultimately from an uncertain Vulgar Latin root; it replaced the earlier Old English word for dancing, sealtian.
Is “dance” a common word?
“Dance” is a very common word in modern English, usually learned at around the A1 level.
How many meanings does “dance” have?
“Dance” has 3 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: to move the body in a rhythmic way, usually in time with music.
What are the different types of dance?
Dance spans countless styles. Classical forms include ballet; social and partner styles include ballroom, salsa, and swing; street styles include hip-hop and breaking. There are also cultural and folk dances, contemporary and jazz, tap, and line dancing. Styles differ by music, movement, and whether they're performed solo, in pairs, or in groups.
Can anyone learn to dance?
Yes. Dancing is a skill that improves with practice, and almost anyone can learn regardless of age or natural rhythm. Beginners start by getting comfortable with basic steps and moving in time to music, then build coordination and confidence. Classes, online tutorials, and simply dancing for fun all help you progress.
Why is dance important?
Dance is a universal form of expression that lets people convey emotion and tell stories through movement. It is also excellent exercise, improving fitness, balance, and coordination. Socially and culturally, dance brings people together, preserves traditions, and marks celebrations. For many, it is simply a joyful release and a creative outlet.
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