Twerked Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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twerked

[tɜːrkt ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

dance movement

Twerked refers to a style of dance that involves shaking the hips and buttocks in a rhythmic manner. It emerged from the hip-hop culture and has become popular in various dance genres. The action of twerking is often performed to music with a heavy bass line.

Synonyms

dance, shimmy, wiggle.

Examples of usage

  • They twerked at the party
  • She twerked to the beat
  • He twerked during the performance

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Pop Culture

  • Twerking was popularized globally by Miley Cyrus during her controversial performance at the 2013 MTV Video Music Awards.
  • The dance move has been featured in various music videos, including those by artists like Nicki Minaj and Lil Wayne, showcasing its widespread acceptance in mainstream music.

Cultural Significance

  • Originally rooted in African dance styles, twerking has cultural importance in many communities, serving as a form of expression and celebration.
  • Dance styles similar to twerking can be found in other cultures, emphasizing rhythmic hip movements as part of traditional or celebratory dances.

Health and Fitness

  • Dancing, including twerking, can be a fun way to get exercise and improves cardiovascular health.
  • Engaging in dance can boost mood and promote social interactions, contributing to overall well-being.

Social Impact

  • Twerking has sparked discussions about body positivity and the acceptance of diverse forms of self-expression in dance.
  • Some view twerking as empowering, while others critique it for its sexual connotations, illustrating the variety of perspectives on the dance.

Origin of 'twerked'

Main points about word origin

  • The term 'twerk' is believed to have originated in the 1990s in the Southern United States, combining 'twist' and 'jerk'.
  • The word 'twerk' was first recorded in the 1993 bounce hit 'Do the Dirty' by DJ Jubilee from New Orleans.

The term 'twerk' has its origins in the late 1990s, primarily associated with the hip-hop culture and Southern United States. It is believed to be a portmanteau of the words 'twist' and 'jerk,' which describe the body movements involved in the dance. The dance style became widely recognized in the early 2000s with the rise of rap music and has been featured in various music videos, further popularizing it. The term 'twerk' was added to the Oxford English Dictionary in 2013, signifying its acceptance into mainstream language. Twerking is often performed in clubs and at parties, reflecting its association with fun, freedom, and expression.