How Do You Spell BALINESE DANCE?

Pronunciation: [bˌe͡ɪla͡ɪnˈiːz dˈans] (IPA)

The spelling of "Balinese dance" can be a bit tricky for non-native English speakers. In IPA phonetic transcription, it is /bəˈliːniːz dæns/, with the stress on the second syllable of "Balinese". The "a" in "Balinese" is pronounced as "uh" (short u sound), while the "e" is pronounced as "ee". The "s" at the end of "dance" is pronounced as a "z" because of the voiced consonant that precedes it. So, when writing or saying "Balinese dance", remember to stress the second syllable of "Balinese" and pronounce the final "s" as "z".

BALINESE DANCE Meaning and Definition

1. Balinese dance refers to the rich and vibrant traditional dance forms that originated in the Indonesian island of Bali. It is a highly intricate and stylized dance tradition that combines graceful movements, expressive gestures, and dynamic footwork, accompanied by traditional music and vocals.

   Balinese dance is deeply rooted in Hindu rituals and mythology, often depicting stories from ancient Hindu epics such as the Ramayana and the Mahabharata. The dance forms are characterized by their elaborate costumes, ornate makeup, and intricate hand movements that convey various emotions and narratives.

   There are several types of Balinese dance, each with its own unique style, purpose, and symbolism. Some popular forms include Legong, Barong, Kecak, and Gambuh. Legong is a refined and delicate dance performed by young girls, depicting celestial nymphs. Barong, on the other hand, involves a mythical creature that represents good spirits and is performed with colorful masks and elaborate costumes.

   Kecak, also known as the "monkey chant," is a mesmerizing dance-drama that involves a group of male dancers chanting rhythmically while enacting a story. Gambuh is a more classical form of dance involving refined gestures and complex rhythmic patterns.

   Balinese dance not only serves as a form of entertainment but also carries cultural, religious, and social significance. It is often performed during religious ceremonies, temple festivals, and traditional celebrations, showcasing the unique artistic heritage of the Balinese people.

Etymology of BALINESE DANCE

The word "Balinese" in "Balinese dance" refers to the island of Bali, which is part of Indonesia. The word "Bali" itself is believed to have originated from the ancient Javanese language, where "Bali dwipa" means "Bali island".

The term "Balinese dance" is composed of two words: "Balinese" and "dance". "Dance" traces its origins back to the Middle English word "dauncen", which came from the Old French word "dancier", meaning "to dance". This, in turn, came from the late Latin word "dancing", which meant "to dance".

Therefore, the etymology of the term "Balinese dance" can be traced back to the geographical name "Bali" and the English word "dance", collectively referring to the traditional dance forms practiced in Bali, Indonesia.