Finesentence mobile logo
Sign in Login / Register

Shimmying Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

💃
Add to dictionary

shimmying

[ˈʃɪmiɪŋ ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

dance movement

Shimmying refers to a lively and energetic dance move that involves shaking or vibrating the body, often specifically the shoulders and hips. This movement is usually performed to upbeat music and is associated with various dance styles, including jazz and swing. The shimmy is often characterized by rapid lateral movements and can look playful and fun. It is often seen at parties, dance clubs, and performances, encouraging a sense of freedom and joy in dance.

Synonyms

jiggle, shake, wiggle.

Examples of usage

  • She was shimmying across the dance floor.
  • The performers shimmyed to the lively jazz music.
  • He couldn't help but shimmy when the beat dropped.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Music and Dance

  • Shimmying became a prominent dance move in the Jazz Age, often associated with flapper culture and speakeasy clubs.
  • The 'shimmy' is also a key part of many popular dance styles, including swing and modern hip-hop.
  • Famous dancers like Josephine Baker used shimmying in performances, elevating its status in the dance world.

Cultural Impact

  • In the 1950s, shimmying gained a resurgence with rock and roll music, influencing the dance styles of that era.
  • The move appears in various film and television performances, often marking moments of joy or celebration.
  • Shimmying often symbolizes freedom and self-expression, allowing dancers to showcase their individuality.

Health and Fitness

  • Shimmying can be a fun way to get exercise without it feeling like a workout, helping improve cardiovascular health.
  • Dancing in general, including shimmying, releases endorphins, which can boost mood and reduce stress.
  • Learning to shimmy can improve coordination and rhythm, benefiting physical fitness overall.

Psychology

  • Dancing, such as shimmying, releases feel-good chemicals in the brain, promoting happiness and reducing anxiety.
  • Participating in group dances can foster a sense of community and belonging among participants.
  • Movement through dance is often linked to enhanced creativity and problem-solving skills in various scenarios.

Origin of 'shimmying'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'shimmy' is believed to have originated in the 1920s within the African American community, particularly in jazz dance.
  • It was likely derived from the Yiddish word 'shime', meaning to scratch or to shake.
  • The term gained popularity through jazz music and eventually spread into popular culture.

The word 'shimmy' originated in the early 20th century, with its earliest known use tracing back to the 1920s in the United States. It is believed to have derived from the African American vernacular and was popularized through the jazz and dance culture of that era. The shimmy dance became a symbol of the Roaring Twenties, a time characterized by vibrant social and cultural movements. It was often associated with the flapper movement, where young women sought to break traditional norms through clothing and dance styles. Over the years, the term has retained its original meaning but has also transcended into various contexts, representing a carefree, spirited movement in dance.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #39,620, 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.