passepied

[ pahs-pyey ]

noun

, plural passe·pieds [pahs-, pyey, -, pyeyz].

1. a lively dance in triple meter popular in France in the 17th and 18th centuries.
2. a dance form in moderately fast 3/8 or 3/4 meter, occasionally constituting part of the 17th- and 18th-century instrumental suite.

passepied

/ pɑːsˈpjeɪ /

noun

1. a lively minuet of Breton origin, in triple time, popular in the 17th century
2. a piece of music composed for or in the rhythm of this dance

Word History and Origins

Origin of passepied¹

1685–95; < French: literally, pass (the) foot, i.e., move it, dance. See pass, -ped

Word History and Origins

Origin of passepied¹

C17: from French: pass the foot

Example Sentences

The rhythmic brio and harmonic insight in the band can be heard all over the album, but especially on “Passepied” and “Parade,” two of Mr. Fortner’s more intricate compositions, which variously draw from Baroque forms and the processional cadence of New Orleans, his hometown.

From New York Times

The implicit message seemed: What did it matter whether he was playing the Gavotte I or the Passepied II movement during Bach’s French Overture in B minor, a remarkable 35-minute work?

From New York Times

Though “Clair de Lune” sagged in spots, the Gallic charm of the “Passepied” was a highlight.

From Washington Post

As Doreen pictured, he had attended the Castle balls during the winter, and had led out his cousin for a turn of passepied or rigadoon without much sighing; had dutifully called on his mother when Shane was safe away, and had spent the rest of his time yawning over briefs for the behoof of Mr. Curran.

From Project Gutenberg

Passepied, pas′pyā, n. a dance like the minuet, but quicker.

From Project Gutenberg