A formal dance or social gathering; abbreviation for ball or balance.
From French 'bal', ultimately from Latin 'ballare' meaning 'to dance'. The word entered English in the 17th century, maintaining its association with formal dancing and social events.
The word 'bal' represents the French influence on English social vocabulary, particularly in describing elegant entertainment. Many English words for sophisticated social activities come from French, reflecting historical cultural exchange between the two nations.
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