Cordax

/ˈkɔːrdæks/ noun

Definition

A vigorous and indecent comic dance performed in ancient Greek theater, especially in comedies and satyr plays.

Etymology

From ancient Greek kordax, a word of unknown ultimate origin but documented in Greek theater contexts from at least the 5th century BCE, representing a bawdy dance tradition.

Kelly Says

Ancient audiences considered the cordax so scandalous that respectable people avoided it, yet it was wildly popular in comedy—it's basically the ancient world's version of a cheeky dance craze that made people clutch their pearls.

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