Cinquepace

/ˈsɪŋkpeɪs/ noun

Definition

A lively Renaissance dance with a pattern of five steps, popular in the 15th and 16th centuries.

Etymology

From cinque (five) + pace/pas (a dance step). Emerged in Renaissance Italian dance terminology and became fashionable across European courts.

Kelly Says

The cinquepace was like the breakdancer move of the Renaissance—nobles did a five-step pattern that looked complex and impressive, making them seem cultured and athletic at court.

Related Words

Explore More Words

Get the Word Orb API

Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.