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Jiving Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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jiving

[ˈdʒaɪvɪŋ ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

dance or talk

Jiving refers to a lively form of dance that originated in the African American communities. It often accompanies swing music and is characterized by energetic movements and improvisation. Additionally, 'jiving' can also describe playful or exaggerated talk or conversation, often filled with humor or banter. The term has come to symbolize a spirited, carefree style both in dance and speech.

Synonyms

boogie, dancing, jive, swing.

Examples of usage

  • We spent the evening jiving on the dance floor.
  • He was jiving with his friends, making everyone laugh.
  • The couple was jiving beautifully to the jazz music.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Pop Culture

  • 'Jive' became widely recognized during the 1940s and symbolized the vibrant, energetic swing and jazz music culture.
  • In the 1980 film 'Airplane!', there is a famous scene involving jive talk, showcasing the comedic use of the term.

Music

  • 'Jiving' is closely associated with swing music and rhythm and blues, where dancers often showcased their moves.
  • Famous musicians like Louis Armstrong popularized jive music, influencing how it makes people dance and feel.

Dance Styles

  • Jive is a specific form of swing dance that is fast-paced, energetic, and involves quick, lively movements.
  • Competitions for jive dancing often showcase intricate footwork and acrobatic tricks, appealing to both dancers and audiences.

Social Dynamics

  • The concept of 'jiving' also applies to the way people communicate, especially in lively discussions filled with humor.
  • In social settings, 'jiving' with someone often means having a good rapport or connection, enhancing relationships.

Origin of 'jiving'

Main points about word origin

  • The term 'jive' originated in the 1930s Harlem jazz scene, referring to a type of dance popular among African American communities.
  • It’s believed to come from the phrase 'to jive with' which means to have a good time or to socialize.
  • In the early days, 'jiving' also referred to a playful or humorous way of speaking, often using slang.

The term 'jive' ultimately derives from African American slang, emerging in the early 20th century with roots in both jazz music and dance culture. It initially referred to a style of dance popularized in the 1930s and 1940s, particularly within the swing era. The word's meaning broadened over time to include a more general sense of lively conversation or banter. It became notably popular during the Big Band era, where improvisational dance styles flourished alongside fast-paced swing tunes. As jazz music spread across the United States, so too did the jive category, influencing various other dance forms and movements, ultimately impacting modern popular dance and culture.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #40,092, 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.