Moving with high, exaggerated steps and a bouncy gait, often showing off or expressing energy and confidence.
From Middle English 'pranren,' possibly from Old French 'prancer,' but the exact origin is debated. The word has meant 'to move proudly with high steps' since at least the 1400s, originally used to describe horses.
Horses prance naturally when they're feeling energized and proud, so the word started with horses but now describes anyone walking around like they're showing off or feeling themselves—that's why 'prancing' almost always has a teasing, playful tone to it!
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