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Sashaying Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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sashaying

[sæˈʃeɪ ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

movement style

To sashay is to walk in a way that is meant to attract attention or show off. It often implies a confident or flamboyant manner of movement, typically characterized by a swaying or exaggerated motion. The term can also denote a carefree or casual way of moving that suggests a sense of self-assuredness.

Synonyms

flounce, prance, strut, swank.

Examples of usage

  • She sashayed across the stage with confidence.
  • He loved to sashay down the street, turning heads.
  • The dancer sashayed gracefully, captivating the audience.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Dance and Performance

  • Sashaying is often seen in dance styles like salsa or cabaret, where performers emphasize their movements to attract viewers.
  • The act of sashaying can convey confidence, often used in performances to project personality.
  • It’s a key element in many fashion runway shows, where models sashay to showcase clothing.

Cultural References

  • The term is frequently used in pop culture, especially in drag performances, highlighting the art of flamboyant walking.
  • In literature and music, sashaying can symbolize freedom and expression, often associated with vibrant characters.
  • TV shows and movies often portray characters sashaying to signify confidence or to make an entrance.

Psychology

  • Sashaying can reflect a person's mood and self-esteem, often linked to feelings of empowerment.
  • Research suggests that body language, including sashaying, can influence how others perceive you, impacting first impressions.
  • Certain styles of movement, like sashaying, can boost a person's confidence, making them feel more assertive in social situations.

Fashion

  • Sashaying has become synonymous with high fashion, where the way one walks can significantly influence the look and feel of outfits.
  • Fashion designers encourage sashaying in runway shows, as it adds emotional impact to the presentation of their clothing designs.
  • The way clothing flows with movement, such as sashaying, adds an artistic element to fashion that can evoke various feelings in observers.

Origin of 'sashaying'

Main points about word origin

  • The origin of 'sashay' comes from the French word 's'achayer,' meaning to skip or move lightly.
  • The term was popularized in the 19th century, initially used to describe a way of walking that grabs attention.
  • 'Sashay' implies not just movement but an attitude of swagger or flair.

The term 'sashay' has its roots in American English, with its earliest recorded use dating back to the mid-19th century. It is believed to derive from the French word 'chassé,' which means 'to chase' or 'to move quickly,' and was originally used in the context of dance. Over time, the word evolved to encompass a more flamboyant style of walking or moving, often associated with theatricality and a sense of showmanship. Sashay became particularly popular in the context of drag culture and performance art, where it denotes a confident and attention-grabbing manner of movement. Its playful connotation and connection to self-expression continue to resonate in contemporary language, especially in relation to fashion and personal style.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #40,933, 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.