dance attendance
Filed under D
In a sentence
- Sarah was tired of constantly dancing attendance on her demanding boss.
- The president's security detail had to dance attendance on him at all times.
- The celebrity entered the event surrounded by a team of assistants, who were there to dance attendance on his every need.
Where it comes from and how it is used
The idiom "dance attendance" is a phrase commonly used in the English language. Its origin can be traced back to the 16th century, where courtiers would dance and entertain to please monarchs and the aristocracy.
The idiom is often used to describe someone who serves or follows orders diligently, often with a subservient or obsequious attitude. It can also be used to describe situations where someone is expected to wait on or assist someone, often in a secondary or supporting role.
In modern usage, the idiom "dance attendance" is commonly used in a figurative sense. It can be used to describe someone who is constantly at the beck and call of their boss or who constantly seeks to please others. This conveys a sense of subservience or a lack of autonomy.
Yet another related idiom is "dance with the devil". This idiom is often used to describe a risky or dangerous situation or association. In the context of "dance attendance", the idiom can be used to describe someone who goes along with or serves someone who is considered risky or dangerous.
Lastly, there is the idiom "bow and scrape". This idiom refers to the act of excessively fawning or showing excessive deference to someone. In the context of "dance attendance", the idiom can be used to describe someone who exhibits excessive subservience or obsequiousness in their efforts to please.
The idiom "dance attendance" has a long history and continues to be used in the English language. It conveys a sense of subservience and obligation, particularly in situations where one is expected to serve or follow orders diligently.
Neighbouring idioms
- fan dance
- song and danceSport, games & leisure
- dance with the devil
- bow and scrape
- bow down
- be there
- at one's feet
- bring down the houseSport, games & leisure
Know an earlier use or a better origin story?Tell us.