saraband

or sar·a·bande

[ sar-uh-band ]

noun

1. a slow, stately Spanish dance, especially of the 17th and 18th centuries, in triple meter, derived from a vigorous castanet dance.
2. a piece of music for or using the rhythm of this dance, usually forming one of the movements in the classical suite and following the courante.

Word History and Origins

Origin of saraband¹

1610–20; < French sarabande < Spanish zarabanda, perhaps < Arabic sarband a kind of dance < Persian

Example Sentences

Anne bade him prove it by dressing as a circus clown and dancing a saraband for her.

From Project Gutenberg

And from the phlox and mignonette Rich attars drift on every hand; And when star-vestured twilight comes The pale moths weave a saraband.

From Project Gutenberg

Miss Longmuir flew up the steps to his assistance, and unseen sarabands pummelled the floor of the loft.

From Project Gutenberg

And at some great eventful scene Full many a dance the chamber graced, Pavanes and sarabands were paced, And minuets when Anne was queen.

From Project Gutenberg

Before the second act is a very stately saraband.

From Project Gutenberg