For anyone stepping into the world of classical dance, the language of the studio can initially feel like a separate code. Ballet terminology is not merely a collection of fancy names; it is the structural skeleton and expressive vocabulary of a centuries-old art form. Understanding these terms transforms a passive observer into an engaged participant, allowing for precise communication between teacher and student, and deepening the connection to the music and movement. This guide serves as a definitive list of ballet terms, demystifying the language for beginners while offering a systematic reference for seasoned practitioners.
The Foundational Vocabulary: Positions and Directions
At the heart of ballet technique lie the foundational positions, particularly those of the feet and arms. These are the building blocks from which all movement originates. The terminology is precise, describing exact placements of the skeleton to ensure balance, alignment, and grace. Mastery of these positions is the first step toward fluidity and control.
Foot Positions
First Position: Heels touching, toes turned outwards to form a straight line.
Second Position: Feet wide apart, parallel to the back, heels aligned with the hips.
Third Position: The heel of one foot is placed against the arch of the other, creating a compressed stance.
Fourth Position: One foot is placed directly in front of or behind the other, with a distance roughly equal to the length of one foot.
Fifth Position: The ultimate crossed position, where the feet overlap, with the heel of the front foot touching the toe of the back foot.
Arm Positions (Port de Bras)
First Position: Arms rounded and held low in front of the body, forming a gentle oval.
Second Position: Arms extended out to the sides, creating a straight line from fingertip to fingertip.
Third Position: One arm remains in second position while the other is curved gently above the head.
Fourth Position: Arms extended in a diagonal, one higher than the other, as if holding a large beach ball.
Fifth Position: Arms rounded and positioned above the head, wrists touching in an intricate oval shape.
Movement Terminology: The Actions
Beyond static poses, ballet is a dynamic art form built on a lexicon of specific movements. These terms describe the trajectory, speed, and quality of the motion. From the explosive energy of a jump to the serene control of a turn, each verb dictates a precise physical action that defines the choreography.
Basic Actions
Plié: The fundamental bending of the knees, essential for all jumps and turns, performed in any position.
Tendu: "Stretched." The action of sliding the foot along the floor, extending the toe without lifting it.
Dégagé: "Disengaged." Similar to tendu, but the working foot is lifted slightly off the floor, typically to hip or knee height.
Rond de Jambe: "Circle of the leg." A circular movement of the leg on the ground or in the air, either on the floor (à terre) or in the air (en l'air).
Elevated and Dynamic Movements
Sauté: "Jumped." A basic jump performed from the feet, landing softly in the original position.
Chassé: "Chased." A traveling step where one foot chases the other, creating a gliding effect.
