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Beguine Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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beguine

[bɪˈɡiːn ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

musical style

Beguine is a style of dance and music that originated in the Caribbean, particularly among the French-speaking population of the Lesser Antilles in the early 20th century. It is characterized by a moderate tempo and a smooth, swaying rhythm. The beguine emerged in the 1930s as a popular dance form in Paris and was often associated with the cabaret scene and jazz music. This style has influenced various other forms of music and dance in the tropical regions and remains a symbol of Caribbean culture.

Synonyms

dance, musical genre.

Examples of usage

  • They danced the beguine under the stars.
  • The band played a lively beguine tune.
  • Her movements mirrored the beguine's flowing rhythm.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Music

  • Beguine music features a syncopated 4/4 time signature and is characterized by both smooth and lively tempos.
  • Prominent jazz musicians of the 1940s, like Charlie Parker, embraced the beguine, blending it with other jazz forms for unique sounds.
  • Songs like 'Begin the Beguine' by Cole Porter helped popularize the dance rhythm and music beyond its original cultural roots.

Cultural Impact

  • Beguine blends elements from Afro-Caribbean traditions, Spanish, and jazz music, reflecting a rich cultural synthesis in its evolution.
  • The dance form has influenced various genres, contributing to the development of Latin jazz and romantic ballroom styles.
  • In literature and film, the beguine symbolizes joy and carefree moments, often associated with dance halls and nightlife.

Historical Context

  • During the 1930s and 1940s, the beguine gained immense popularity in the United States, especially in cities like New York and Paris.
  • The dance was often performed in nightclubs, where it was celebrated for its blend of fast and slow movements, inviting improvisation.
  • Historically, the beguine represents a time of cultural exchange post-World War II, as different musical styles converged.

Dance Styles

  • The beguine is a partner dance that allows for improvisation, making it dynamic and interactive between dancers.
  • Unlike certain formal dances, the beguine encourages personal expression, reflecting the mood and creativity of the performers.
  • Many ballroom competitions now include the beguine as part of their Latin dance categories, showcasing its enduring appeal.

Origin of 'beguine'

Main points about word origin

  • The term 'beguine' comes from the French 'bégue', which in turn likely derived from the name of a group of mystics in medieval times, known as the Beguines.
  • This dance style became popular in the early 20th century, particularly in the United States, influenced by Caribbean and jazz music.
  • The word also connects to 'begin', hinting at the dance's lively nature as a way to start celebrations.

The term 'beguine' is derived from the French word which refers to a style of music and dance. The name is believed to have originated from the African roots of various music styles combined with European influences during the colonial period in the Caribbean. The beguine gained popularity in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, especially in Martinique and Guadeloupe, where it was performed in local dance halls. As it spread to Europe, particularly to Paris in the 1930s, the beguine attracted attention from musicians such as Django Reinhardt and eventually became a significant part of the jazz scene. The dance is often associated with a feeling of romance and longing, capturing the essence of Caribbean life.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #41,078, this word is among the less frequently used terms in English. While interesting to know, it's not crucial for most English learners unless needed for specific purposes.