The phrase "danced attendance on" is a common idiom meaning to act as a servant or assistant to someone, often with the connotation of being overly attentive or obsequious. The spelling of the word is straightforward: "danced" is pronounced /dænst/ with a soft "c" sound, while "attendance" is pronounced /əˈtɛndəns/ with stress on the second syllable. The preposition "on" is pronounced /ɒn/ with a short "o" sound. Together, they make up a phrase that may have originated in the 16th century and remains in use today.
The phrase "danced attendance on" refers to the act of serving someone or attending to their needs in an overly attentive or obsequious manner. The term originated from the practice of dancing as a form of entertainment in the court of kings and nobles, where professional dancers would perform elaborate and graceful movements in front of the royal attendees. The dancer would focus all their attention on the person being entertained, making sure to anticipate their every desire or whim, aiming to please and satisfy them completely.
Metaphorically, "danced attendance on" implies an individual's effortlessly obedient behavior towards another person, typically someone in a position of power or authority. It suggests a level of subservience or servitude, where the person attending treats the object of their attention as if they were royalty or of higher importance. This phrase often implies that the individual providing the attention may be excessively devoted, compromising their own autonomy, to fulfill the needs, desires, or demands of the person they are "dancing attendance on." It can signify a degree of sycophancy, with the person attending actively seeking to please and gain favor with the object of their attention.
In summary, "danced attendance on" denotes the act of serving someone with great care, devotion, and deference, with the aim of satisfying their every wish or requirement.