choreography

noun

cho·​re·​og·​ra·​phy ˌkȯr-ē-ˈä-grə-fē 

plural choreographies

1

: the art of symbolically representing dancing

2

a

: the composition and arrangement of dances especially for ballet

b

: a composition created by this art

3

: something resembling choreography

a snail-paced choreography of delicate high diplomacy

—Wolfgang Saxon

choreographic

ˌkȯr-ē-ə-ˈgra-fik 

adjective

choreographically

ˌkȯr-ē-ə-ˈgra-fi-k(ə-)lē 

adverb

Did you know?

In ancient Greece, a choreia was a circular dance accompanied by a singing chorus. But the actual notating of dances by means of symbols didn't begin until the 17th or 18th century, when ballet developed into a complex art form in France. The choreographer of a major ballet, which might run to an hour or more, will always record his or her work in notation, though choreographing a five-minute segment for a TV talent show usually doesn't require any record at all.

Examples of choreography in a Sentence

He has an interest in choreography.

a show with excellent choreography

Recent Examples on the Web

Taking to the stage in a skin-tight black ensemble, Ciara gave a nod to Serena Williams by playing clips of the star tennis player on the screen behind her while backup dancers joined in on the choreography. —Chris Barilla, Peoplemag, 12 July 2024

The boys will be immersed in Korean life and K-pop culture as well as have intense lessons in choreography, voice and performance. —K.j. Yossman, Variety, 11 July 2024

In the 30-second clip, the girls are seen dominating global stages, executing flawless choreography and getting cheered on by their loving fans, affectionately known as the Blinks. —Rania Aniftos, Billboard, 9 July 2024

The stage was alive with vibrant visuals and intricate choreography, her dancers moving in perfect harmony. —Shelby Stewart, Essence, 8 July 2024

Word History

Etymology

French chorégraphie, from Greek choreia + French -graphie -graphy

First Known Use

circa 1789, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

choreography

noun

cho·​re·​og·​ra·​phy ˌkōr-ē-ˈäg-rə-fē 

ˌkȯr-

: the art of arranging dances especially for ballet

choreograph

ˈkōr-ē-ə-ˌgraf

ˈkȯr-

verb

choreographer

ˌkōr-ē-ˈäg-rə-fər

ˌkȯr-

noun

choreographic

-ē-ə-ˈgraf-ik

adjective