prance

[prans, prahns]

verb (used without object)

pranced, prancing 

1. to spring from the hind legs; to move by springing, as a horse.

2. to ride on a horse doing this.

3. to ride gaily, proudly, or insolently.

4. to move or go in an elated manner; cavort.

   Synonyms: frisk, frolic, romp, skip, leap, gambol

5. to dance or move in a lively or spirited manner; caper.

   Synonyms: frisk, frolic, romp, skip, leap, gambol

verb (used with object)

pranced, prancing 

1. to cause to prance.

noun

1. the act of prancing; a prancing movement.

prance

/ prɑːns /

verb

1. (intr) to swagger or strut

2. (intr) to caper, gambol, or dance about

3. (intr)

   1. (of a horse) to move with high lively springing steps

   2. to ride a horse that moves in this way

4. (tr) to cause to prance

noun

1. the act or an instance of prancing

Other Word Forms

• prancer noun
• prancingly adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of prance¹

1325–75; Middle English prauncen, praunsen (v.); akin to Danish (dial.) pransk spirited, said of a horse

Word History and Origins

Origin of prance¹

C14 prauncen; perhaps related to German prangen to be in full splendour; compare Danish (dialect) pransk lively, spirited, used of a horse

Example Sentences

Like Carrie’s playful tiptoe stride through the streets in heels, the show pranced around topics that, had it walked through them with intention, would have given the series traces of its former self.

From Los Angeles Times

Pretty soon, Syd, with his funny feet, hockey stick legs, thick swishy tail, and ballerina-like moves, pranced down hallways and welcomed outsiders into his new neighborhood.

From Los Angeles Times

She was definitely a looker, prancing like a show dog after she was groomed, and was always cheerful and loving — except with lizards, whom she hunted and devoured with relish.

From Los Angeles Times

In the latter’s music video, Teasdale and Chambers unforgettably prance around in long, blue dresses while sporting lobster claw gloves.

From Los Angeles Times

In the afternoon show timed for that sweet spot many parents know well — post-nap and right before the evening witching hours — Pearce pranced, high-fived kids and waved at babies being hoisted in the air.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• gambol 
• sashay 
• strut 
• swagger