What does waltzing mean?
Waltzing refers to the act of performing a waltz, a classic style of ballroom dance characterized by a rise and fall movement, typically performed to music with a strong beat in 3/4 time. The term can also describe a smooth, gliding motion, as if waltzing, often used to convey a sense of carefree or romantic movement. As a verb, waltzing can be used formally or informally, and is often used to describe a couple's movement across a dance floor or through a space. The word waltzing evokes a sense of elegance and fluidity, and is a useful term for describing a range of movements, from the literal act of dancing the waltz to more figurative expressions of movement.
verbThe act of dancing the waltz, a style of ballroom dance characterized by a rise and fall movement, typically performed to music with a strong beat in 3/4 time.
- The act of performing a waltz
- Moving or walking with a smooth, gliding motion, as if waltzing
"The couple spent the evening waltzing across the dance floor, lost in the music and each other's eyes."
"The couple waltzed into the room, commanding everyone's attention."
"She waltzed through the garden, her long skirt swirling around her."
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of waltzing
The term 'waltzing' originates from the German word 'walzen', meaning 'to roll' or 'to dance', which evolved into the English word 'waltz'. The waltz as a dance style emerged in Europe in the late 18th century, and quickly became popular across the continent and beyond. The verb 'waltzing' has been in use since the early 19th century, and has evolved to describe not only the act of dancing the waltz but also a range of smooth, gliding movements.
Usage notes
The verb 'waltzing' can be used formally or informally, and is often used to describe a carefree or romantic movement.