ballon
|bal-lon|
C2
🇺🇸
/bəˈlɑn/
🇬🇧
/bəˈlɒn/
light, bouncy leap
Etymology
Etymology Information
'ballon' originates from French, specifically the word 'ballon', where it meant 'large ball' or 'balloon'.
Historical Evolution
'ballon' passed into English usage (notably in ballet terminology) from French; the French word itself derives from Italian 'ballone', an augmentative of 'palla' meaning 'ball'.
Meaning Changes
Initially it referred to a 'large ball' or 'balloon' in French; in English it became specialized in the dance context to mean 'lightness or buoyant quality in jumping'.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
in ballet, the appearance or quality of lightness and buoyancy in jumps; the ability to make leaps look effortless.
The dancer's ballon made her leaps seem effortless.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Last updated: 2026/01/07 00:20