Ballet Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

💃

Add to dictionary

ballet

[ˈbæleɪ ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

dance performance

A classical dance form characterized by grace and precision of movement and by elaborate formal gestures, steps, and poses.

Synonyms

art, dance, performance.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
ballet	A specific type of dance that follows classical techniques and is often performed in theaters. It usually involves a storyline and is accompanied by music. She has been practicing ballet since she was five years old The Nutcracker is a famous ballet performed during Christmas
dance	A general term for moving rhythmically to music. It can include many different styles and forms, not limited to ballet. They love to dance together at weddings Salsa is a popular dance style originating from Latin America
performance	Any event where art, music, dance, or drama is shown to an audience. It emphasizes the act of presenting to people. Her performance in the play was outstanding The dance performance received a standing ovation
art	A broad term that can refer to anything creative, including painting, sculpture, music, and dance. It emphasizes the creative and expressive aspects. For her, dance is a form of art that helps her express herself The museum is full of various forms of art, from paintings to sculptures

Examples of usage

The ballet performance was absolutely breathtaking.
She has been training in ballet since she was a little girl.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

type of dance

A theatrical representation of a story or theme performed to music by ballet dancers.

Synonyms

art, dance, performance.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
ballet	Refers specifically to a classical dance form characterized by precise, formalized movements and the use of pointe shoes. Typically used when discussing classical dance performances. The Nutcracker is a popular ballet performed during the holiday season. She dreams of becoming a professional ballet dancer.
performance	Refers to the act of presenting a form of art, such as dance, theater, or music, in front of an audience. Used when discussing the act or event of presenting an art form live. The theater's latest performance received rave reviews. They gave an excellent performance during the school concert.
dance	A general term for artistic movement, which can include different styles such as ballet, contemporary, hip-hop, and others. Used when referring to dancing in general or unspecified styles. She loves to dance at parties. Dance can be a great way to express emotions.
art	A broad term that encompasses a variety of creative expressions, including painting, sculpture, music, and dance. Used when referring to creative expression in general or discussing multiple forms of creativity. He enjoys various forms of art, including painting and literature. The museum has a diverse collection of modern art.

Examples of usage

She is a talented ballet dancer.
The ballet tells the story of a princess and a prince.

^{Context #3 | Verb}

move gracefully

To perform a ballet dance.

Synonyms

dance, move, perform.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
ballet	Ballet is a specific form of dance that involves highly skilled and carefully choreographed movements. Use this term when referring to this classical dance style. She has been studying ballet since she was five years old. The ballet performance was breathtaking and graceful.
dance	Dance is a broad term for any movement of the body, usually rhythmic, and often to music. It can refer to any style or genre. They decided to learn a traditional folk dance. The couple danced together all night at the wedding.
move	Move is a general term for any change in position or motion. It can refer to a single action or step within a dance or everyday activity. It can sometimes have negative connotations if referring to socially inappropriate or awkward actions. She showed me a cool move she learned in dance class. Making a sudden move like that can be seen as aggressive.
perform	Perform is used when someone is presenting any form of artistic expression, including dance, in front of an audience. It implies a level of preparation and formality. The band will perform on Saturday night. She had to perform a solo dance in the talent show.

Examples of usage

She balleted across the stage with elegance.
He balleted his way through the routine flawlessly.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Origin of 'ballet'

The word 'ballet' originated from the Italian word 'balletto' which means 'a dance.' Ballet as a form of dance has its roots in the Italian Renaissance courts of the 15th and 16th centuries. It later developed into a more structured and formal dance style in France during the 17th century. Ballet has since become a popular and influential dance form worldwide, known for its grace, beauty, and technical precision.

See also: ball, ballad, ballgame, ballot, ballpark, ballroom, balls.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranked #10,990, this word falls into high-advanced vocabulary. It appears less frequently but is valuable for expressing precise meanings in specific contexts.

...
10987 electorate
10988 manipulated
10989 parlor
10990 ballet
10991 forfeit
10992 lied
10993 chuckled
...