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Cakewalk: meaning, definitions and examples

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cakewalk

 

[ ˈkeɪkˌwɔk ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

easy task

A cakewalk refers to something that is very easy to accomplish or achieve. The term originated from a dance contest in the 19th century where the prize was often a cake. It is used in modern language to describe tasks that require little effort, especially in contrast to more challenging activities. The phrase 'cakewalk' can also imply that the outcome is assured or guaranteed due to its simplicity.

Synonyms

breeze, cinch, piece of cake, walkover

Examples of usage

  • Winning the game was a cakewalk for the skilled athlete.
  • The exam turned out to be a cakewalk for the students.
  • Planning the event was a cakewalk with the right team.
  • Learning the basics of the software was a cakewalk.

Translations

Translations of the word "cakewalk" in other languages:

🇵🇹 moleza

🇮🇳 आसान काम

🇩🇪 Kinderspiel

🇮🇩 permainan mudah

🇺🇦 легка справа

🇵🇱 łatwizna

🇯🇵 楽勝

🇫🇷 partie de plaisir

🇪🇸 pan comido

🇹🇷 çocuk oyuncağı

🇰🇷 식은 죽 먹기

🇸🇦 أمر سهل

🇨🇿 hračka

🇸🇰 hračka

🇨🇳 轻而易举

🇸🇮 lahka naloga

🇮🇸 augljós

🇰🇿 оңай жұмыс

🇬🇪 საშუალება

🇦🇿 asan iş

🇲🇽 pan comido

Etymology

The term 'cakewalk' originated in the early 19th century in the United States, particularly among African American communities in the South. It referred to a social dance that was performed at celebrations, often as a competition where participants would showcase their dance skills. The winner would be awarded a cake as a prize, hence the name. This dance was characterized by its exaggerated and formal movements, which became popular at parties and gatherings. Over time, the term 'cakewalk' transitioned from its literal meaning to a more figurative one, being used to describe any task that is simple or effortless. The shift in meaning illustrates how language evolves, as cultural practices influence the way words are understood and utilized in everyday conversation.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #38,426, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.