ballroom

American  

[bawl-room, -room] / ˈbɔlˌrum, -ˌrʊm /

noun

1. a large room, as in a hotel or resort, with a polished floor for dancing.

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ballroom British  

/ -ˌrʊm, ˈbɔːlˌruːm /

noun

1. a large hall for dancing

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Etymology

Origin of ballroom

First recorded in 1730–40; ball ² + room

Explanation

A ballroom is a room that has enough space for many people to dance. Traditionally, a ballroom has either a hardwood or marble floor. Most private houses are built without ballrooms these days, but it was once common for a grand home or mansion to include a special room for throwing dance parties. These ballrooms were large, with high ceilings, and could accommodate a live band and many dancers. Ballroom dancing was originally a formal, social dance form that only happened in ballrooms. The word comes from ball, or party, with the Latin root ballare, "to dance."

Example Sentences

"If they want to spend money on securing the White House, I think it would be very much a good expenditure. But the ballroom is being built," he said.

From Barron's • May 21, 2026

“This is being made as a gift from me and other people that are great patriots and spent a lot of money. We are building what will be the finest ballroom anywhere in the world.”

From Los Angeles Times • May 21, 2026

But long after the memory of that announcement fades, voters will recall Tuesday’s news conference at the White House ballroom construction site.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 20, 2026

He had gotten a laugh a moment before when he mocked President James Madison for not having a ballroom when the White House was burned by the British during the War of 1812.

From Salon • May 20, 2026

He avoids the ballroom entirely, save for a single waltz when Tsukiko coerces him onto the dance floor.

From "The Night Circus" by Erin Morgenstern

Related Words

• amphitheater
• arena
• auditorium
• chamber
• church
• gallery
• gym
• gymnasium
• lounge
• theater