dance attendance: Idiom Meaning and Origin
What does ‘dance attendance’ mean?
The idiom "dance attendance" means to show excessive eagerness to please or serve someone, especially in an obsequious or ingratiating manner.
Idiom Explorer
The idiom "fan dance" refers to a situation where someone deliberately conceals their true intentions or motives behind a showy or distracting display, similar to the traditional dance performed with decorative fans used to hide the body. It implies a sense of deceit or manipulation.
The idiom "dance with the devil" means to engage in a dangerous or risky activity or to associate with a person who is harmful or immoral.
The idiom "buy a ticket to" means to willingly participate in or contribute to a negative or undesirable situation or outcome.
An idiom meaning very busy or actively engaged in activity, likening someone to a bee, known for its constant motion and productivity.
The idiom "bump and grind" refers to a suggestive and rhythmic dance style, often associated with burlesque or strip clubs. It implies a combination of sensual movements, typically involving physical contact and suggestive gestures.
The idiom "brown noser" refers to someone who flatters or behaves obsequiously towards someone in order to gain their favor or advantage. This term often carries a negative connotation, suggesting insincerity or manipulation in one's actions.
The idiom "bring down the house" means to entertain or impress an audience so much that they respond with enthusiastic applause or laughter.
An idiom meaning to closely watch or monitor someone, often causing discomfort or pressure.
The idiom "bow down" means to show great respect or submission to someone or something.
Decoding Etymology
The idiom "dance attendance" is a phrase commonly used in the English language. Its origin can be traced back to the 16th century, where courtiers would dance and entertain to please monarchs and the aristocracy.
The idiom is often used to describe someone who serves or follows orders diligently, often with a subservient or obsequious attitude. It can also be used to describe situations where someone is expected to wait on or assist someone, often in a secondary or supporting role.
In modern usage, the idiom "dance attendance" is commonly used in a figurative sense. It can be used to describe someone who is constantly at the beck and call of their boss or who constantly seeks to please others. This conveys a sense of subservience or a lack of autonomy.
One related idiom is the "fan dance". This idiom refers to a type of dance where a performer uses a fan as a prop. In the context of "dance attendance", the idiom can be used to describe someone who puts on a show or acts in a way to please others, similar to a performer using a fan to entertain an audience.
Another related idiom is the "song and dance". This idiom is often used to describe a long and elaborate explanation or excuse. In the context of "dance attendance", the idiom can be used to describe someone who goes to great lengths to please others by giving lengthy explanations or excuses for their actions.
Yet another related idiom is "dance with the devil". This idiom is often used to describe a risky or dangerous situation or association. In the context of "dance attendance", the idiom can be used to describe someone who goes along with or serves someone who is considered risky or dangerous.
Lastly, there is the idiom "bow and scrape". This idiom refers to the act of excessively fawning or showing excessive deference to someone. In the context of "dance attendance", the idiom can be used to describe someone who exhibits excessive subservience or obsequiousness in their efforts to please.
The idiom "dance attendance" has a long history and continues to be used in the English language. It conveys a sense of subservience and obligation, particularly in situations where one is expected to serve or follow orders diligently.
Example usage
Examples of how the idiom *dance attendance* can be used in a sentence:
1. Sarah was tired of constantly dancing attendance on her demanding boss.
2. The president's security detail had to dance attendance on him at all times.
3. The celebrity entered the event surrounded by a team of assistants, who were there to dance attendance on his every need.
More "Service" idioms
