Dancer Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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dancer

[ˈdænsər ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

performing arts

A person who dances as a profession or for pleasure. Dancers typically use their bodies to express emotions, tell stories, or simply enjoy the rhythm of the music.

Synonyms

artist, ballerina, performer.

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Word Description / Examples
dancer

Can be used generally to describe someone who dances, regardless of the type or style of dance.

  • The dancer performed beautifully on stage.
  • He's a talented dancer who can do many different styles.
performer

Used to describe someone who puts on a show for an audience. This can include dancers, actors, musicians, and other entertainers.

  • The performer captivated the audience with his act.
  • She's been a performer since she was a child.
artist

Used to describe someone who practices any form of art, which can include dance, painting, music, and more. It emphasizes creativity and expression.

  • As an artist, she finds inspiration in nature.
  • Every artist has a unique perspective on life.
ballerina

Specifically refers to a female ballet dancer. It connotes grace, elegance, and classical training.

  • The ballerina rehearsed her routine for hours.
  • She dreams of becoming a professional ballerina one day.

Examples of usage

  • She is a talented dancer who performs in various shows.
  • The ballet dancer gracefully moved across the stage.
  • The group of dancers rehearsed tirelessly for the upcoming performance.
Context #2 | Noun

social event

A person who participates in social dancing at events such as weddings, parties, or dance clubs. Social dancers often enjoy various styles of dance like salsa, swing, or tango.

Synonyms

dancing enthusiast, party-goer, social dancer.

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Word Description / Examples
dancer

Used to describe someone who performs dance as a profession, hobby, or art form.

  • She is an accomplished ballet dancer.
  • The dancer executed a perfect pirouette on stage.
social dancer

Used to describe someone who enjoys dancing mainly in social settings rather than in professional or formal contexts, often at events, parties, or social gatherings.

  • As a social dancer, she loves participating in salsa nights at the local dance hall.
  • He is a social dancer and enjoys dancing at weddings and parties.
party-goer

Used to describe someone who frequently attends parties or social gatherings, often implying a focus on socializing rather than dancing skill.

  • He's a regular party-goer and knows all the best spots in the city.
  • The party-goer enjoyed the lively atmosphere at the club.
dancing enthusiast

Used to describe someone who has a strong interest or passion for dancing but may not necessarily perform professionally.

  • He is a dancing enthusiast and attends every dance workshop in town.
  • As a dancing enthusiast, she practices different dance styles in her free time.

Examples of usage

  • At the wedding, the guests joined the dancers on the dance floor.
  • The salsa dancer impressed everyone with their energetic moves.
  • The dance club was filled with enthusiastic dancers enjoying the music.
Context #3 | Noun

professional field

A person who is trained in various forms of dance and performs on stage, in movies, or on television. Professional dancers often work with choreographers to create captivating performances.

Synonyms

choreographer, dance artist, dancing professional.

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Word Description / Examples
dancer

General term for someone who performs dance as a hobby or professionally.

  • She is a talented dancer who performs in various shows.
  • He has been a dancer since childhood and now travels the world performing.
dance artist

Refers to someone who sees dance as an art form and engages deeply in its creative aspects, often used in contemporary or experimental dance contexts.

  • She is a dance artist known for her avant-garde performances.
  • The dance artist collaborated with a visual artist to create a stunning piece.
dancing professional

Refers to someone who works in the field of dance, usually indicating a high level of training and professional experience.

  • He is a dancing professional with years of stage experience.
  • Many dancing professionals train rigorously to maintain their skills.
choreographer

Used when referring to someone who creates and designs dances for performances.

  • The choreographer is working on a new ballet for the upcoming season.
  • He gained fame as a choreographer for his innovative routines.

Examples of usage

  • The dancer landed a role in the Broadway musical.
  • The professional dancer showcased their skills in the music video.
  • The reality show features talented dancers competing for a prize.

Translations

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Interesting Facts

Historical Origins

  • Dancing has been part of human culture since prehistoric times, used for ceremonies and celebrations.
  • The word 'dance' comes from the Old French 'dancier', which means to move quickly.
  • Ancient Egyptians depicted dancers in their tomb paintings, showing the importance of dance in their rituals.

Cultural Significance

  • Different cultures have unique dance styles, such as Ballet in Europe, Hula in Hawaii, and Salsa in Latin America.
  • Many cultures incorporate dance into traditional celebrations, like folk dances during harvest festivals.
  • Dance can be a way of expressing emotions and social commentary, reflecting societal issues through movement.

Science of Dance

  • Studies show that dancing can improve physical health by enhancing cardiovascular fitness and flexibility.
  • Engaging in dance activates multiple areas of the brain, including those responsible for memory and emotion.
  • Learning to dance can increase coordination and balance, making it beneficial at any age.

Pop Culture

  • Iconic movies like 'Dirty Dancing' and 'Step Up' have popularized dance among younger audiences.
  • Dance competitions, such as 'So You Think You Can Dance', showcase a variety of styles and talents, drawing huge audiences.
  • Famous dancers like Martha Graham and Michael Jackson have influenced millions with their unique styles and contributions to performance art.

Literature and Arts

  • Dance is a common theme in literature, symbolizing freedom, passion, or rebellion, as seen in works like 'The Dance of Death'.
  • Many visual artists, like Edgar Degas, captured the beauty of ballet dancers in their paintings, blending movement and aesthetics.
  • Poets often use dance as a metaphor for life’s ebbs and flows, exploring the connection between movement and human experience.

Origin of 'dancer'

The word 'dancer' originated from the Middle English word 'dauncer', which came from the Old French word 'dancier'. Dance has been an integral part of human culture for centuries, with various forms of dance evolving across different civilizations. Dancers have played roles in rituals, celebrations, entertainment, and storytelling throughout history, showcasing the beauty and expressiveness of movement.


See also: dance, danceable, dancing.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranked #11,960, this word falls into high-advanced vocabulary. It appears less frequently but is valuable for expressing precise meanings in specific contexts.