Pavens

Part of speech: noun

Definitions

1. A type of slow, processional dance from the Renaissance period often performed in pairs ; a musical composition designed for such a dance characterized by a stately tempo and dignified rhythm ; a term used to describe the act or style of performing this formal dance
2. A ceremonial dance style originating in the 16th century involving paired steps and measured pace ; a piece of music composed specifically to accompany this elegant, deliberate dancing ; an artistic performance involving the careful, graceful movements typical of this historical dance form
3. A slow, dignified dance typically danced by couples during the Renaissance ; the musical work intended for accompaniment of this dance, noted for its even and majestic beat ; the expression or display of this graceful, traditional dance through measured bodily motion

Etymology: "Pavens" is the plural of "paven," a stately Renaissance dance and the music written for it. The form is built from "pave" with the "-en" ending, which is the usual English past-participle ending, so the name is a participle formed on that verb. The dance is better known under the spelling "pavane," which English took from French. The French form is usually traced to Italian "pavana," probably from "padovana," meaning "of Padua," though that link is uncertain.

Synonyms: peacocks, birds