tap-dancing
Definition
- Noun:
- A style of dance: "tap-dancing" is a form of dance characterized by the use of special shoes fitted with metal plates (taps) that strike the floor to create rhythmic sounds, often in sync with music.
Usage Examples
- Noun:
- She has been taking tap-dancing lessons for three years. (She is learning the dance style that uses tapping sounds.)
- The musical featured an energetic tap-dancing number. (The performance included a routine of rhythmic tapping steps.)
Advanced Usage
"to take up tap-dancing": to begin learning or practicing this dance style.
- He decided to take up tap-dancing to improve his coordination. (He started learning the dance form for better motor skills.)
"tap-dancing shoes": the specific footwear with metal taps used in this dance.
- She bought new tap-dancing shoes for the recital. (The shoes with metal plates for making sounds.)
Variants and Related Words
Tap-dance (n): a single performance or routine of tap-dancing.
- The duo performed a brilliant tap-dance on stage. (A single instance of the dance style.)
Tap-dancer (n): a person who performs tap-dancing.
- He is a professional tap-dancer who tours internationally. (A dancer skilled in this style.)
Synonyms
- Rhythm tap: a subgenre of tap-dancing focusing on complex rhythms.
- Step dance: a broader category including dances with percussive footwork.
Phrasal Verbs
- Tap out: to produce a rhythm by tapping, often in tap-dancing.
- The dancer tapped out a fast beat with his feet. (He created a rhythmic pattern through tapping.)
Related Idioms
To keep time: to maintain a steady rhythm, essential in tap-dancing.
- She learned to keep time with the music while tap-dancing. (She synchronized her footwork with the musical beat.)
To have a light foot: to move gracefully and quickly, a skill in tap-dancing.
- The tap-dancer had a light foot, making the taps sound crisp. (The dancer moved nimbly and precisely.)