belly dance

noun

1. a solo dance of Middle Eastern origin, performed by a woman with midriff exposed, emphasizing movements of the pelvis and abdominal muscles.

belly dance

noun

1. a sensuous and provocative dance of Middle Eastern origin, performed by women, with undulating movements of the hips and abdomen

verb

1. intr to perform such a dance

Derived Forms

• belly dancer, noun

Other Words From

• belly dancer noun
• belly dancing noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of belly dance¹

First recorded in 1895–1900

Example Sentences

The statue, which took five months to complete, shows Shakira wearing a maroon outfit and performing her famous belly dance.

From New York Times

Rosen takes the history and culture of belly dance seriously, and her students understand that her classes benefit from that commitment.

From Seattle Times

Just in the past few months, Kuwaiti authorities shut down a popular gym hosting belly dance classes.

From Seattle Times

“I think it’s easier to cook vegetables over the Chinese New Year period,” said Darren Ho, 32, a chef and belly dance instructor in Singapore.

From New York Times

When Egyptian women gathered to socialize in the 18th century, they would belly dance.

From New York Times