fox trot

¹

noun

1. a social dance, in quadruple meter, performed by couples, characterized by various combinations of slow and quick steps.
2. a pace, as of a horse, consisting of a series of short steps, as in slackening from a trot to a walk.

fox-trot

²

[ foks-trot ]

verb (used without object)

, fox-trot·ted, fox-trot·ting.

1. to dance a fox trot.

Word History and Origins

Origin of fox trot¹

An Americanism dating back to 1870–75

Origin of fox trot²

First recorded in 1915–20

Example Sentences

“You floated across that floor like butter on a crumpet,” he told British singer Frankie Bridge of her finely rendered fox trot on “Strictly Come Dancing.”

From Washington Post

Many were first-generation Asian Americans, drawn to the artistry of the tango, fox trot and cha-cha after having spent most of their lives working and raising children.

From New York Times

It is the annual showcase, a spectacle of dance featuring the rumba, samba, fox trot, tango and more.

From New York Times

Nights were for parties, no-frills affairs with a disco ball, women in glittery gowns and a steady stream of cha-cha, fox trot, waltz, salsa, tango, bachata and occasional pop interludes.

From Washington Post

Some enter competitions, instructors say, but most are there simply to learn the rumba, cha-cha, tango, waltz, salsa or fox trot.

From New York Times