dance card

American  

noun

1. a card listing, in order, the names of the partners with whom a woman has agreed to dance at a formal ball or party.

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Etymology

Origin of dance card

An Americanism dating back to 1890–95

Example Sentences

“I’m not racing to get my dance card full,” he says, almost as an aside.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 15, 2026

After all, his dance card was pretty full with both of the American sports teams he owns, the Philadelphia 76ers and the New Jersey Devils, in the playoffs.

From Washington Times • May 2, 2023

Here’s what to put on your dance card.

From Seattle Times • Sep. 7, 2022

"It wasn't done without thought. I also feel slightly like, is this a thing where our dance card has to be public?"

From Salon • Nov. 3, 2021

Tucked in between old woolen socks and pants were mementoes: circus bills, a dance card, penny postcards, a few photos.

From "Hattie Big Sky" by Kirby Larson