highland fling
Definition
Noun: A traditional, energetic Scottish solo dance, typically performed to bagpipe music. It is characterized by quick, hopping steps and is often associated with Scottish Highland culture and celebrations.
Usage
The term "highland fling" specifically refers to this distinct Scottish dance form. It is used when discussing traditional dance, Scottish culture, or competitive Highland games. * The dancer won a medal for her performance of the highland fling. * Learning the highland fling requires both strength and grace.
Advanced Usage
- Cultural Symbol: The dance is often performed as a display of Scottish heritage and pride at events like Highland gatherings, weddings, or cultural festivals.
- Competitive Sport: It is a standard event in modern Highland games, where dancers are judged on technique, timing, and deportment.
Variants and Related Words
- Highland dancing (n): The broader category of traditional Scottish dances from the Highlands, which includes the highland fling, sword dance, and seann triubhas.
- Reel (n): A type of lively folk dance, often for multiple people. The highland fling is a specific type of Scottish reel.
Synonyms
- Scottish reel
- Highland dance
Related Idioms or Phrases
- To do the highland fling: An informal phrase meaning to perform this specific dance.
- At the ceilidh, he got up to do the highland fling.
Noun
-
a vigorous Scottish reel
