noun

Nance

Nance (noun) means a dated, derogatory slang term for an effeminate man. Example: “The old film used "nance" as a slur that would be considered offensive today.”

noun

A dated, derogatory slang term for an effeminate man.

"The old film used "nance" as a slur that would be considered offensive today."

verb

To move or act in an exaggeratedly prissy or effeminate way.

"He nanced across the stage for comic effect."

How to use Nance

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishAn old-fashioned and offensive slang word; avoid it in modern usage.

When to use it

Dated and derogatory — best avoided in contemporary writing or speech.

Word forms

Nanced past tense, nanced past tense, Nances plural, nances plural, Nances singular, nances singular

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The old film used "_____" as a slur that would be considered offensive today.

Etymology

From "nancy," compare "prance" and "mince" for the verb sense.

Rhymes for Nance

lance dance seance chance nuance trance stance glance balance advance finance enhance

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Frequently asked questions

What does “Nance” mean?

The word “Nance” means a dated, derogatory slang term for an effeminate man. In plain terms, an old-fashioned and offensive slang word; avoid it in modern usage.

How do you use “Nance” in a sentence?

Here is “Nance” used in a sentence: “The old film used "nance" as a slur that would be considered offensive today.”

What part of speech is “Nance”?

Depending on how it is used, “Nance” can be a noun and a verb.

How many meanings does “Nance” have?

“Nance” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: a dated, derogatory slang term for an effeminate man.