NOVELTY DANCE Meaning and
Definition
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Novelty dance refers to a type of dance that gained popularity during the 20th century, often characterized by its unique, entertaining, and unconventional movements. This dance style emerged as a subgenre within the broader field of social dance, with a focus on humor, novelty, and distinctive choreography. The term "novelty" suggests the dance's intention to captivate and amuse the audience, rather than adhering to traditional or formal dance conventions.
A hallmark of novelty dance is the incorporation of comical or exaggerated motions that are intended to evoke laughter or create a sense of amusement. These dances often involve exaggerated facial expressions, unusual body movements, or exaggerated gestures that are not typically seen in other dance styles. The choreography may involve elements of parody, mime, slapstick comedy, or mimicry, blending elements of dance with theatrical performance.
Novelty dances are commonly associated with popular music genres of the time, and they rose to prominence in the 20th century alongside the development of various music and dance styles such as swing, rock and roll, disco, and hip-hop. Some examples of novelty dances include the Twist, the Chicken Dance, the Macarena, the Electric Slide, and the Harlem Shake, among many others.
Overall, novelty dance is characterized by its unique and quirky movements, which strive to entertain and amuse both participants and spectators alike. The genre continues to evolve and adapt to new trends in popular culture, ensuring that novelty dance remains a beloved form of entertainment for generations to come.
Etymology of NOVELTY DANCE
The word "novelty dance" has a rather straightforward etymology.
The term "novelty" originates from the Late Middle English word "novelte", which meant "newness" or "freshness". It was derived from the Old French word "novel", meaning "new" or "recent".
The word "dance" comes from the Old French word "dancier", which means "to dance". It has its roots in the Latin word "danciare", which also means "to dance".
So, the etymology of "novelty dance" simply combines the concept of something new and fresh ("novelty") with the action of dancing ("dance"). This term is often used to describe dances that are unique, quirky, or innovative, emphasizing their originality and distinctiveness.
