cinquepace

noun

cinque·​pace
ˈsiŋk(ə)ˌpās
variants or cinquepas
-ˌpas,
saⁿk(ə)pä
plural cinquepaces
-āsə̇z
or cinquepas
-pas,
-pä
: a 16th century dance with steps regulated by the number five probably related to the galliard

Word History

Etymology

alteration of earlier cinquepas, from Middle French cinq pas, from cinq five + pas dance step, pace

The Ultimate Dictionary Awaits

Expand your vocabulary and dive deeper into language with Merriam-Webster Unabridged.

  1. Expanded definitions
  2. Detailed etymologies
  3. Advanced search tools
  4. All ad-free

Discover what makes Merriam-Webster Unabridged the essential choice for true word lovers.

Start Your Free Trial Now

Dictionary Entries Near cinquepace

Cite this Entry

“Cinquepace.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/cinquepace. Accessed 26 Dec. 2024.

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!