break dancing etymology

Etymology

The term "breakdancing" is a combination of the words "break" and "dance."

  • Break: This refers to the rhythmic pauses in the music that provide opportunities for dancers to showcase their moves.
  • Dance: This is the art form that involves moving the body rhythmically in response to music.

Meaning

Breakdancing is a style of dance characterized by its intricate footwork, spinning moves, and acrobatic flips. It is often performed to hip-hop or funk music. Breakdancing has become a global phenomenon, gaining popularity in the 1970s and 1980s.

Origin

Breakdancing originated in the African-American and Latino communities of New York City in the 1970s. It developed from the block parties and street performances of the time. DJs would play funk and soul music with extended breaks, allowing dancers to show off their skills.

Initially known as "breaking," the dance form evolved through the influence of various cultures, including African, Native American, and Latin American styles. It gained popularity through films such as "Wild Style" (1983) and "Beat Street" (1984), which showcased the talents of breakdancers.

Over time, breakdancing has become an organized sport with competitions and championships. It is now recognized as an artistic and athletic expression that transcends cultural boundaries.

break dancing relate terms

  • break

    Etymology Middle English breken breken Old English brecan Proto Germanic brekan Pro

  • break

    Etymology Middle English breken breken Old English brecan Proto Germanic brekan Pro

  • breakdown

    Etymology Break verb Originated from the Old English word brecan meaning to br

  • break

    Etymology Middle English breken breken Old English brecan Proto Germanic brekan Pro

  • down

    Etymology The word down has origins in several Germanic languages Old English dun

  • ball

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

  • interrupt

    Etymology Latin interrumpere inter meaning between rumpere meaning to break

  • almah

    Etymology Arabic العلماء al ulamāʾ Originally from the verb ʻalima to

  • sashay

  • refrain

    Etymology Old French refraindre Medieval Latin refrangere Latin re back frang

  • dance

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

  • disruption

    Etymology Middle English disruptioun from Old French disruption from Latin disruptio

  • brake

    Etymology The word brake has several etymological origins German brechen meaning

  • baker

    Etymology The word baker comes from the Middle English bakere which in turn is deri

  • humility

    Etymology Latin humilitas from humus earth soil ground Meaning The quality o