war dance

noun

: a dance performed (as by American Indians) in preparation for battle or in celebration of victory

Examples of war dance in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Suddenly, the screen turns white and Prabowo strolls on stage, prompting all to stand and launch into a traditional Javanese war dance, punching the air, thumping chests, and chanting in hypnotic unison. — Charlie Campbell / Jakarta, TIME, 14 Oct. 2024 The effect is reminiscent of the siva tau, a traditional Samoan war dance that is now often performed by rugby players before a match. — Coralie Kraft, New York Times, 9 Oct. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1711, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of war dance was in 1711

Rhymes for war dance

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wardable
war dance
ward bed
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Cite this Entry

“War dance.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/war%20dance. Accessed 3 Apr. 2025.

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More from Merriam-Webster on war dance

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about war dance

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