Definition

1. Noun:
   • A style of solo dance characterized by fast, acrobatic movements where different parts of the body, such as the back, shoulders, or hands, make contact with the ground. It is typically performed to the beat and rhythm of rap music.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • The street performer captivated the crowd with his impressive break dancing.
  • She has been practicing break dancing for three years and can now do complex power moves.

Advanced Usage

• The term can function attributively to describe related concepts.
  • The break dancing competition drew crews from all over the city.
  • He teaches break dancing classes at the community center.

Variants and Related Words

• Breakdance (verb/noun): Often used interchangeably with "break dancing" as a noun. As a verb, it means to perform this style of dance.
  • They love to breakdance in the park on weekends.
• Breakdancer (noun): A person who performs break dancing.
  • The talented breakdancer spun on his head.
• B-boying / B-girling (noun): Alternative names for the dance, referring specifically to male (B-boy) or female (B-girl) performers.
• Breaking (noun): A common shortened form used within the hip-hop community to refer to break dancing.

Synonyms

• Street dance: A broader category of dance styles that originated in urban settings, which includes break dancing.
• Hip-hop dance: Another broader term encompassing dance styles associated with hip-hop culture, including breaking.

Related Phrases

• Break a leg: (Idiom) This is a common idiom meaning "good luck," often said to performers. It is not directly related to the dance but shares the word "break."
• Power moves: A key component of break dancing, referring to the dynamic, spinning, and acrobatic maneuvers.
• Toprock: The upright, standing dance moves performed at the beginning of a break dancing routine.
• Downrock / Footwork: The part of the dance performed on the floor, using the hands and feet for support.

Noun

1. a form of solo dancing that involves rapid acrobatic moves in which different parts of the body touch the ground; normally performed to the rhythm of rap music