Finesentence

Foxtrot Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

🕺
Save

foxtrot

fox-trot

🇺🇸 /ˈfɑkstɹɑt/ · 🇬🇧 /fˈɒkstɹɒt/

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

dance style

The foxtrot is a smooth, progressive dance characterized by long, flowing movements. It is typically danced to big band music and consists of varying rhythms that create a sense of gliding across the floor.

Synonyms

ballroom dance, dance.

Examples of usage

  • They performed a beautiful foxtrot at the wedding.
  • She took dance lessons to learn the foxtrot.
  • The foxtrot is a favorite among ballroom dancers.
Context #2 | Verb

military movement

To foxtrot means to move in a specified manner, often used in military jargon to describe a certain type of maneuvering. It emphasizes precision and coordination.

Synonyms

maneuver, move.

Examples of usage

  • The troops were instructed to foxtrot into position.
  • He foxtrotted his way through the training exercise.
  • They learned to foxtrot when communicating commands.

Translations

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

Quick facts about “foxtrot”

Foxtrot is a 2-syllable noun and verb (fox-trot). It is pronounced /ˈfɑkstɹɑt/ in American English and /fˈɒkstɹɒt/ in British English. On finesentence.com it has 2 meanings, 4 synonyms, and translations into 21 languages. It ranks #39,146 among the most common English words.

Origin of 'foxtrot'

The term 'foxtrot' originates from the early 20th century and is thought to derive from the name of a performer, Harry Fox, who helped popularize the dance in vaudeville performances around 1914. The dance form combines elements of both slow and quick movements which mirror the music it is danced to, typically jazz or swing. The foxtrot gained massive popularity in ballrooms and dance halls, particularly in America, during the dance craze of the 1920s and 1930s, where it became a staple in social dancing. Its structure allows for both elegance and athleticism, making it a beloved dance for both casual and competitive dancers. Over the years, the foxtrot has evolved, incorporating various styles and adjustments, but it remains a classic in the world of dance.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #39,146, 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.