modern dance

American  

noun

1. a form of contemporary theatrical and concert dance employing a special technique for developing the use of the entire body in movements expressive of abstract ideas.

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modern dance British  

noun

1. a style of free and expressive theatrical dancing not bound by the classical rules of ballet

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Etymology

Origin of modern dance

First recorded in 1910–15

Example Sentences

It’s a reflection of the diverse public school’s commitment to the arts; students here can play in the orchestra, marching band or modern band, and study drama or modern dance.

From Los Angeles Times • May 4, 2026

Her technique, with its fierce movements and angular shapes, became a mainstay of American modern dance and remains part of the curriculum at many dance academies worldwide.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jan. 25, 2026

But if doing it all has been Tharp’s greatest contribution to modern dance, then that has meant she hasn’t always been taken as seriously as other innovators.

From Los Angeles Times • Feb. 14, 2025

“When I got to college to study modern dance and ballet, I saw that I had a voice outside of those forms,” Zollar said.

From New York Times • Jun. 17, 2024

She does modern dance, which is like...I don't know.

From "Sunny" by Jason Reynolds