belly dance etymology

Etymology

The term "belly dance" is a translation of the French phrase "danse du ventre," which was coined in the early 19th century. The phrase "danse du ventre" replaced the earlier French term "danse orientale," which emphasized the dance's Eastern origins.

Meaning

Belly dance is a style of dance that emphasizes isolated movements of the abdomen, hips, and chest. It is typically performed to Middle Eastern music and is often associated with the Arabic-speaking world.

Origin

The origins of belly dance are shrouded in mystery, but it is believed to have evolved from ancient fertility rites and cultural traditions. It has been practiced in various forms throughout the Middle East, North Africa, and parts of Asia for centuries.

Historical Background

• Ancient Egypt: Wall paintings and hieroglyphs depict women performing similar dance movements dating back to 3000 BCE.
• Roman Empire: Belly dance was popular as a form of entertainment and religious ritual.
• Arabian Empire: The dance flourished as part of court entertainment and social gatherings.
• Ottoman Empire: Belly dance became a staple of entertainment at harems and other social events.
• 19th Century: European travelers and explorers brought belly dance back to the West, where it gained popularity as an exotic form of entertainment.

Cultural Significance

Belly dance holds significant cultural importance in its regions of origin. It is often used to celebrate special occasions, connect with heritage, and express cultural identity. In some communities, it is considered a sacred art form and has been passed down from generation to generation.

belly dance relate terms

• belly

  Etymology The word belly comes from the Old English word belig which itself has mul

• bellows

  Etymology Old English bellowan from Proto Germanic balwanoz Proto Indo European bʰe

• gastric

  Etymology Greek gastēr stomach Latin gastricus pertaining to the stomach M

• stomach

  Etymology Indo European Root s teg meaning to cover Proto Germanic stogmaz

• abdomen

  Etymology Latin abdomen from Medieval Latin abdomen Greek ἀβδόμην abdomen

• tummy

  Etymology The word tummy is derived from the Middle English word tumben which means

• midriff

  Etymology Middle English mydref 13th century Old English middref 11th century Pro

• dance

  Etymology The word dance traces its origins back to Old French dancier Latin da

• dance

  Etymology The word dance traces its origins back to Old French dancier Latin da

• ventriloquy

  Etymology The word ventriloquy is derived from the Latin words venter belly and lo

• bulk

  Etymology The word bulk has multiple etymological origins Old English bulc mean

• carol

  Etymology The name Carol comes from the Old French word carole which in turn derived

• ball

  Etymology French balle Latin palla ball Meaning and Origin The word ball come

• samba

  Etymology The word samba comes from the Brazilian Portuguese word samba which is der

• bizarre

  Etymology The word bizarre is derived from the French word bizarre which in turn co

• fascinate

  Etymology Medieval Latin fascinare to bewitch enchant Latin fascinum evil eye fa

• renege

  Etymology Late 16th century from French renégat 16th century from Spanish renegado