WordGarden.iochoreography
C2Pronunciation
UK
- /kˌɔːrɪˈɒɡrəfi/
US
- /ˌkɔriˈɑɡrəfi/
Meanings
Noun
the art or design of arranging dance movements
the careful coordination of movements or actions
Beyond the definition
Choreography isn't just for ballerinas! While it is most famously known as the art of designing sequences of movements for dances, it can also refer more broadly to planned and arranged movement for a performance—or, in a figurative sense, to the careful coordination of people's actions. Consider a thrilling fight scene in a movie: every punch, kick, and dodge is carefully choreographed by a stunt coordinator or movement director.
The word comes from Greek roots meaning "dance writing." Originally, it referred to recording dances in written form, but today it's a much broader concept encompassing everything from intricate ballet routines to the precise movements of marching bands or even synchronized swimming performances at the Olympics. Good choreography tells a story, evokes emotion, and captivates an audience through movement.
Choreography is the art and craft of creating sequences of human movement. Most commonly associated with dance, it's the process of designing and arranging steps, patterns, and formations to create a cohesive and expressive performance. However, its reach extends far beyond the stage.
At its core, choreography involves planning how bodies move through space and time. A ballet choreographer might focus on grace, fluidity, and storytelling through elegant gestures and leaps. Yet, choreography is also crucial in other performing arts like musical theater, opera, and even film. Action sequences in movies are meticulously choreographed to create believable and exciting scenes.
But the concept isn't limited to performance. Choreography can also be used figuratively for real-world coordination: a surgeon's precise movements during an operation, the coordinated actions of emergency responders at a disaster site, or the efficient workflow within a factory. In these contexts, choreography emphasizes timing, clarity, safety, and smooth coordination.
The term originates from the Greek words choros (dance) and graphia (writing), literally meaning "dance notation." Historically, choreographers would meticulously document steps to preserve dances for future generations. Today, while notation still exists, choreography is often communicated through demonstration, video recording, or a combination of methods.
Ultimately, whether it's a breathtaking ballet or a perfectly synchronized assembly line, choreography is about bringing order and intention to movement—transforming simple actions into something meaningful, beautiful, or effective.
Examples
- 1
School musical
We spent the afternoon learning the choreography for the school musical.
- 2
Dance style
Her choreography mixes classical ballet with hip-hop.
- 3
Cast changes
The director changed the choreography when two new dancers joined the cast.
- 4
Fight scenes
She was credited with the fight choreography in the movie.
- Phrasefight choreography
the planned movements in a scene that looks like a real fight
More examplesFewer examples
- 5
Coordinated movement
Even in the crowded kitchen, the chefs moved with perfect choreography.
- Phrasewith choreography
in a smooth, carefully coordinated way
See also
Similar
- dance composition
- movement design
Shades of meaning
Contrast
Used with (collocations)
- original choreography
- dance choreography
- fight choreography
- choreography by
Word family
Explore
- dance notation
- performance direction
Forms and spellings
2 forms open this card.
Main spelling
- choreographynoun
Forms
- choreographiespluralnoun