Cancan: meaning, definitions and examples

Historical Origins

• The cancan originated in the dance halls of Paris in the early 19th century, becoming popular among the working class.
• Originally known as the 'chahut', the dance featured lively kicks and playful movement, which was seen as scandalous at the time.
• The term 'cancan' comes from the French word for 'to kick'.

Cultural Impact

• The cancan is closely associated with the famous Moulin Rouge cabaret in Paris, which showcased the dance in spectacular shows.
• Iconic artists like Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec are known for capturing the cancan dancers in their artwork, highlighting its cultural significance.
• The dance became a symbol of Parisian nightlife and has influenced many musicals and films around the world.

Performance Art

• Dancers typically wear brightly colored skirts and high-heeled shoes, adding to the vibrancy of the performance.
• The choreography involves a series of fast-paced kicks and formations, creating a visual spectacle that captivates audiences.
• The cancan is often performed in traditional French cabaret shows, making it a staple of French entertainment.

Music

• The cancan is often performed to an upbeat tune, famously associated with the lively piece 'Galop Infernal' by Jacques Offenbach.
• The energetic tempo of the music matches the rapid and playful movements of the dancers, creating an entertaining experience.
• In modern performances, various styles of music can accompany the dance, showing its versatility.

Social Influence

• When the dance first gained popularity, it challenged social norms of modesty and propriety in Victorian culture.
• The lively nature of the cancan encouraged a spirit of liberation and self-expression, especially among women of the time.
• Today, the cancan continues to celebrate freedom and joy, inviting new generations to appreciate its spirited performance.

Ranking #39,513, 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.

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• 39510 southpaw
• 39511 organdie
• 39512 unembellished
• 39513 cancan
• 39514 unresistingly
• 39515 pottered
• 39516 autodidact
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