Outdancing

Part of speech: verb

Definitions

1. To dance in a manner that exceeds or surpasses others in skill or style; to perform dance moves with such energy that one seems to overshadow others; to engage in dancing with an intensity that outshines fellow dancers in an event or setting
2. Engaging in a style of dance that demonstrates superior ability, leaving others behind; performing in such a lively manner that one's movements draw attention away from others; showcasing dance skills with vigor that surpasses that of competitors or partners
3. Dancing in a way that is more impressive or lively than those around; exhibiting a level of performance that stands out when compared to others in the same atmosphere; moving with such enthusiasm that it captures the spotlight from fellow dancers

Etymology: This is an inflected form, so it needs only a brief note. "Outdancing" is the present participle of "outdance," a verb formed from the prefix "out-" and "dance." The prefix comes from an Old English word meaning "out, outward," which gave English its sense of going beyond or surpassing something, and "dance" entered Middle English from Anglo-Norman "dauncer," itself from Vulgar Latin "dantiare." Put together, "outdance" means to surpass another dancer, and the participle carries that sense of doing so while in the middle of the action.