To move with high, exaggerated steps in a proud or showy way.
Origin uncertain but possibly from Old Norse or Old Dutch; may be related to 'prank.' Used first to describe horses' movements, then extended to human behavior.
Horses prance as a natural display of power and confidence—when humans prance, they're imitating that animal behavior to show off, which is why it always looks a bit theatrical and proud.
Prance has historically been coded as feminine or effeminate behavior—exaggerated, showy movement associated with women or with dismissing men's masculinity. This gendered connotation intensified in 20th-century English.
Use descriptively for any gait without suggesting femininity or mockery. Avoid using to diminish someone's credibility based on movement style.
["stride","walk","move","advance"]
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