FOURTH POSITION Meaning and
Definition
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Fourth position, also referred to as quatrième position in French, is a fundamental ballet term utilized to describe a particular stance or alignment of the feet. In this position, the dancer stands at a slight angle with their feet ideally spaced apart sideways, approximately one foot's length apart. The dancer's heel of the front foot is positioned in line with the arch of the back foot, resulting in a V-shaped arrangement, allowing the feet to remain comfortably apart. The toes of both feet maintain contact with the floor, with the front foot slightly turned out.
The fourth position is frequently employed in ballet to transition from one movement to another seamlessly. It creates stability and balance while enabling the dancer to execute various steps with specificity and grace. This position often acts as a preparation for pirouettes, jumps, and other challenging movements, as it serves as an intermediate stance between the more open first position and the closed fifth position.
Mastering fourth position is crucial for aspiring ballet dancers, as it enhances overall technique and body alignment. Achieving proper alignment in this stance helps distribute the weight equally between both feet, preventing any unnecessary strain on joints and muscles. By ensuring correct placement of the feet, dancers can achieve stability and control, displaying a polished and professional appearance on stage.
Overall, fourth position serves as an essential part of ballet vocabulary, providing dancers with a strong foundation for executing movements and showcasing their artistry.
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Left occipitoposterior position, L.O.P.; see cut under presentation.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for FOURTH POSITION
- dourth position
- courth position
- vourth position
- gourth position
- tourth position
- rourth position
- fiurth position
- fkurth position
- flurth position
- fpurth position
- f0urth position
- f9urth position
- foyrth position
- fohrth position
- fojrth position
- foirth position
- fo8rth position
- fo7rth position
- foueth position
- foudth position
Etymology of FOURTH POSITION
The word "fourth" in the term "fourth position" comes from the Middle English word "fourthe", which is a combination of the Old English words "fēower" meaning "four" and "the" meaning "position". The word "position" originated from the Latin word "positio", meaning "placement" or "position". Therefore, the etymology of "fourth position" reflects its literal meaning as the fourth placement or position in ballet or dance.
