Definition

Noun: A person who announces or calls out the sequence of steps, figures, or changes during a dance, especially a group or square dance. This role involves vocally directing the dancers so they can perform the correct movements in time with the music.

Usage

The term "caller-out" is used specifically to refer to the individual who performs the calling function in a dance setting. It is a compound noun formed from the phrasal verb "call out."

Examples

• The square dance was a success thanks to an experienced caller-out who kept everyone in sync.
• In traditional folk dancing, the caller-out is as important as the musicians.
• She learned to be a caller-out for her community's weekly barn dance.

Advanced Usage

• The role can be described as "calling" a dance. For example: "He called the Virginia Reel expertly."
• The activity itself is "caller-out" work or calling.

Variants and Related Words

• Caller (n): A more common and general synonym for "caller-out." It can refer to someone who calls dances, announces names, or makes telephone calls.
• Call (v): The action performed by the caller-out. "To call a dance."
• Square dance caller (n): A specific type of caller-out for square dancing.

Synonyms

• Dance caller
• Prompter (in specific contexts)
• Announcer (general, but less specific to dance)

Related Phrases

• To call out (phrasal verb): To say something loudly, often to get attention or to announce. This is the verbal action from which the noun "caller-out" is derived.
  • The teacher called out the names on the list.
• Call the steps: A phrase describing the core function of a caller-out.

Noun

1. a person who announces the changes of steps during a dance
   • you need a fiddler and a caller for country dancing