There are many terms for ballet (a.k.a. moves and positions) and they are all entirely in French. So, what do they mean, and how can you learn them? This article will make that very easy!
Here are the basic terms: plie- to bend (small and big) tendu- stretched degage- disengaged rond de jambe (en dehors/en dedans)- rounding of the leg (outward/inward) fondu (and coupe)- melted (and cut) frappe- struck demi- small grand- big
At the barre, ballerinas will use and need to know these terms mean. For example, the first combinations at the barre are plies and tendus. All plies are executed in first, second, fourth, and fifth position, both demi and grand. Then, ballerinas continue with degages, frappes, fondus, and more.
pirouette- spin tombe- fall(en) pas de bourree- bourree step eleve- risen releve- re-risen glissade- glide jete- thrown grande jete- big throw en tournant- turning
At center, all ballerinas are required to know these terms and many more involving jumps.
