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noun Uncommon

pointe

pwat

Pointe (noun) means the tip of the toes, especially as used in a ballet position where a dancer balances fully on the toes. Example: “She trained for years before she was allowed to dance en pointe.”

noun
1
The tip of the toes, especially as used in a ballet position where a dancer balances fully on the toes.
"She trained for years before she was allowed to dance en pointe."

How to use pointe

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishA ballet term for balancing or dancing on the very tips of the toes.

Easily confused with
Common pairings
en pointe pointe shoes dance on pointe

Word forms

pointes plural

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She trained for years before she was allowed to dance en _____.

Etymology

From French pointe, "point, tip."

Origin: French

Rhymes for pointe

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Frequently asked questions

What does “pointe” mean?

The word “pointe” means the tip of the toes, especially as used in a ballet position where a dancer balances fully on the toes. In plain terms, a ballet term for balancing or dancing on the very tips of the toes.

How do you pronounce “pointe”?

“Pointe” is pronounced pwat (/pwɑnt/ in IPA).

How do you use “pointe” in a sentence?

Here is “pointe” used in a sentence: “She trained for years before she was allowed to dance en pointe.”

What part of speech is “pointe”?

“Pointe” is a noun.

Where does the word “pointe” come from?

The word “pointe” comes from French. From French pointe, "point, tip.".

Is “pointe” a common word?

“Pointe” is an uncommon word in modern English.

Definitions: FreeDict original editorial