branle

American  

[bran-l] / ˈbræn l /

noun

1. a lively 16th- and 17th-century round dance originating in France.

2. the music for this dance.

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branle British  

/ ˈbrænəl /

noun

1. an old French country dance performed in a linked circle

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Etymology

Origin of branle

1575–85; < Middle French, derivative of branler to shake, swing (probably from the phrase branler une danse ), Old French bran ( s ) ler to move (a limb, the head), contraction of brandeler to shake, equivalent to brand ( ir ) to brandish + -eler suffix of expressive verbs < Vulgar Latin *-illāre

Example Sentences

That happiness carries over into the Washerwoman, a branle, or circle dance, that flourished in the countryside.

From New York Times • Jul. 4, 2013

The branle was at once formed, and Francezka, as on the night before, led it with Count Saxe.

From Francezka by Seawell, Molly Elliot

“Your Berwick has to dance a branle first with Prince Eugene, and he who would dance with such a partner must be very active and keep his wits and his legs ready.”

From Francezka by Seawell, Molly Elliot

Bien suivant la seule raison n'est juste de soi: tout branle avec le temps.

From Miscellaneous Studies; a series of essays by Pater, Walter

Francezka walked the minuet with Count Saxe, and afterward danced in a very merry branle.

From Francezka by Seawell, Molly Elliot