tap dance

¹

noun

1. a dance in which the rhythm or rhythmical variation is audibly tapped out with the toe or heel by a dancer wearing shoes with special hard soles or with taps.

tap-dance

²

[ tap-dans, -dahns ]

verb (used without object)

, tap-danced, tap-danc·ing.

1. to perform a tap dance.

tap dance

noun

1. a step dance in which the performer wears shoes equipped with taps that make a rhythmic sound on the stage as he dances

verb

1. to perform a tap dance

Derived Forms

• ˈtap-ˌdancing, noun
• ˈtap-ˌdancer, noun

Other Words From

• tap-dancer noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of tap dance¹

Probably earlier than 1925–30

Origin of tap dance²

First recorded in 1925–30

Example Sentences

Logan is a tap dance and yoga aficionado and a prolific self-taught artist whose sculptures, mirrored jewelry, costumes, stage sets, and performance pieces have garnered a wide audience.

From Washington Blade

In 1985, Mueller wrote a detailed 440-page study of every Astaire move seen in his films from 1933 to 1968, every swoop, tap dance or stutter step.

From Washington Post

In a part of the story reflecting on loss and vulnerability, Watts executes a moody tap dance, sometimes deliberately almost losing his balance.

From Washington Post

Before covid-19, Delaney — who aspires to be a choreographer when she grows up — used to attend ballet, contemporary, jazz, hip-hop and tap dance classes at least four times a week.

From Washington Post

But Kasich will perform some meek tap dance about repeal and replace, leaving the good parts.

From The Daily Beast

In their U.N. tap dance, Mr. Obama made nicer noises than Mr. Rouhani and was willing to be seen with a reluctant Mr. Rouhani.

From The Daily Beast

I have to do this little tap-dance and sell the film to them.

From The Daily Beast

Recognizing the ticklishness of this particular economic idea, Paul begins to tap dance.

From The Daily Beast

Plus, Tina and Brittany got to make use of their tap-dance skills!

From The Daily Beast

The "time-step" and "break" are the keys to tap dancing and must be mastered before the tap dance can be learned.

From Project Gutenberg