Line Dance Glossary
A UK-focused glossary of common line dance steps, terms and class language. Search for a step name, movement, timing, tag, restart or technique.
A/B Pattern
Description: A phrased dance structure using different sections of choreography.
Example: Dance section A, then section B, then return to section A.
Absolute Beginner
Description: A dance level designed for complete newcomers.
Example: Simple steps, minimal turns and clear repeated patterns.
Advanced
Description: A high-level dance with complex timing, turns, phrasing or technique.
Example: Multiple phrases, fast syncopation and advanced turns.
Anchor Step
Description: A triple step danced mostly in place, often found in West Coast Swing influenced line dances.
Example: Step slightly back on right, replace weight to left, replace weight to right.
Applejack
Description: A twisting foot movement where one heel turns out while the opposite toe turns out.
Example: Right heel twists right while left toe twists left, then reverse.
Applejacks Right / Left
Description: Applejacks performed in a specified direction.
Example: Travel or twist the applejack action to the right or left.
Arm Styling
Description: Optional arm movements used to add expression or musicality.
Example: Add a hand sweep, clap or pose during a hold.
Back Cross
Description: A backward step crossing behind or across the supporting foot.
Example: Step back right crossing behind left.
Back Lock Step
Description: A travelling backward step, lock, step pattern.
Example: Step back right, lock left across right, step back right.
Back Mambo
Description: A back rock, recover and close step.
Example: Rock back right, recover onto left, step right beside left.
Back Rock
Description: Rocking weight backwards onto one foot, then recovering forward.
Example: Rock back on right, recover weight onto left.
Back Rock Cross
Description: A back rock followed by a crossing step.
Example: Rock back right, recover left, cross right over left.
Back Rock Side
Description: A back rock followed by a side step.
Example: Rock back right, recover left, step right to side.
Back Shuffle
Description: A backward travelling triple step.
Example: Step back right, close left beside right, step back right.
Back Toe Strut
Description: A backward toe strut movement.
Example: Step back right toe, drop right heel.
Back Together Forward
Description: Another way of describing a coaster-style movement.
Example: Step back right, close left beside right, step forward right.
Back Touch
Description: Touching the toe behind without transferring weight.
Example: Touch right toe back behind left.
Ball Change
Description: A quick weight transfer using the ball of the foot.
Example: Step onto the ball of the right foot, then quickly replace weight onto the left. Often counted &1.
Ball Cross
Description: A quick ball step followed by a cross.
Example: Step onto ball of right, cross left over right.
Ball Step
Description: A quick step onto the ball of the foot followed by another step.
Example: Step onto ball of right, step forward left.
Beginner
Description: A level for dancers with basic line dance knowledge.
Example: May include vines, jazz boxes, shuffles, simple pivots and restarts.
Behind Side Cross
Description: A three-step pattern crossing behind, stepping to the side, then crossing in front.
Example: Cross right behind left, step left to side, cross right over left.
Behind Side Forward
Description: A three-step pattern often used to travel or change direction.
Example: Cross right behind left, step left to side, step right forward.
Behind Side Touch
Description: Cross behind, step side, then touch without weight.
Example: Cross right behind left, step left to side, touch right beside left.
Body Isolation
Description: Moving one part of the body independently for styling.
Example: Isolate the shoulders, ribs or hips during a hold.
Body Roll
Description: A rolling movement through the upper body and torso.
Example: Roll chest, ribs and hips forward or back over one or more counts.
Boogie Bump
Description: A boogie-style step with hip bump action.
Example: Step right with a hip bump to the right.
Boogie Roll
Description: A rolling hip or body action used in boogie-style movement.
Example: Roll hips as you step side or forward.
Boogie Step
Description: A relaxed groove-style step used in boogie dances.
Example: Walk forward with bent knees and rhythmical bounce.
Boogie Walk
Description: A stylised walking action with bounce or hip movement.
Example: Walk forward right, left with relaxed knees and hip action.
Bota Fogo
Description: A samba-style crossing step with a side rock action.
Example: Cross right over left, rock left to side, recover onto right.
Bounce
Description: A controlled knee or heel action used to mark rhythm.
Example: Bounce heels twice while keeping weight centred.
Box Step
Description: A square-shaped step pattern.
Example: Step side, close, step back or forward, then complete the box shape.
BPM
Description: Beats per minute; the speed of the music.
Example: A faster dance may use a track around 120 BPM or higher.
Bridge
Description: An extra section added to the choreography, usually to match the music.
Example: Dance 64 counts, add an 8-count bridge, then continue or restart.
Brush
Description: Brushing the foot lightly across the floor.
Example: Brush right foot forward before stepping.
Brush Hitch
Description: A brush followed immediately by a hitch.
Example: Brush right foot forward, hitch right knee.
Bump & Bump
Description: Repeated hip bumps in rhythm.
Example: Bump hips right, left.
Bump / Hip Bump
Description: A sharp hip movement, often with weight changes.
Example: Bump hips right, left, right.
Bump Right / Bump Left
Description: Single directional hip bumps.
Example: Push hips right on one beat, left on the next.
Camel Walk
Description: A stylised walking motion with rolling body action.
Example: Walk forward right, left with exaggerated body movement.
Charleston Kick
Description: A Charleston variation using a forward kick instead of a forward touch.
Example: Step right forward, kick left forward, step left back, touch right back.
Charleston Step
Description: A four-count step and touch pattern travelling forward and back.
Example: touch right forward, step right foot back, touch left back, step left forward..
Charleston Touch
Description: Another name sometimes used for a Charleston Step with touches.
Example: Step right forward, touch left forward, step left back, touch right back.
Chassé / Shuffle
Description: A triple step travelling sideways or directionally.
Example: Step right, close left beside right, step right. Usually counted 1&2.
Chug
Description: A small travelling movement pushing from the supporting foot.
Example: Lift toes slightly and chug sideways right.
Clap
Description: A hand clap used for rhythm, styling or emphasis.
Example: Step right, touch left beside right and clap.
Click / Finger Click
Description: A finger click used as styling or to mark an accent.
Example: Touch right to side and click fingers on the hold.
Clockwise / Anti-clockwise
Description: Direction of travel or turning around the floor.
Example: A turn may rotate clockwise to the right or anti-clockwise to the left.
Coaster Cross
Description: A coaster step that finishes by crossing one foot over the other.
Example: Step back right, close left beside right, cross right over left.
Coaster Quarter Turn
Description: A coaster step performed with a quarter turn.
Example: Step back right turning quarter right, close left, step forward right.
Coaster Step
Description: A back-together-forward movement.
Example: Step back right, step left beside right, step forward right.
Comfort Turn / Non-turning Option
Description: A simpler alternative to a turn, often offered for safety or confidence.
Example: Replace a rolling vine with a normal grapevine.
Contra
Description: A line dance formation where dancers face each other in lines.
Example: Two lines dance the same steps while facing opposite partners.
Count
Description: The numbered beats used to teach and remember choreography.
Example: A 32-count dance has 32 beats before the pattern starts again.
Count In
Description: The beats counted before starting the dance.
Example: “5, 6, 7, 8” before count 1.
Counter-clockwise
Description: Turning or travelling to the left around a circular path.
Example: Partner dancers may travel counter-clockwise around the room.
Counts Per Wall
Description: The number of counts danced before the choreography repeats.
Example: A 32-count, 4-wall dance repeats every 32 counts.
Cross Back
Description: A cross followed by a backward step.
Example: Cross right over left, step back left.
Cross Back Side
Description: A jazz-box style pattern using cross, back and side.
Example: Cross right over left, step left back, step right side.
Cross Behind
Description: Crossing one foot behind the other.
Example: Cross right behind left.
Cross Hold
Description: Crossing the foot and holding position.
Example: Cross right over left, hold.
Cross Point
Description: Crossing one foot and then pointing the other foot.
Example: Cross right over left, point left to left side.
Cross Rock
Description: Rocking across the body, then recovering weight back.
Example: Cross rock right over left, recover onto left.
Cross Samba
Description: A samba-style cross rock movement.
Example: Cross right over left, rock left to side, recover right.
Cross Shuffle
Description: A travelling triple step crossing over.
Example: Cross right over left, step left to side, cross right over left.
Cross Side Behind
Description: A travelling crossing pattern.
Example: Cross right over left, step left to side, cross right behind left.
Cross Side Rock
Description: A cross step followed by a side rock action.
Example: Cross right over left, rock left to side, recover onto right.
Cross Touch
Description: Touching the foot crossed over the supporting foot.
Example: Touch right toe across left.
Cross Unwind
Description: Crossing one foot over the other and turning to unwind.
Example: Cross right over left, unwind half turn left.
Cuban Motion
Description: Natural hip action created by transferring weight, often in Latin-style dances.
Example: Allow the hip to settle as weight transfers from one foot to the other.
Dance Rotation
Description: The regular selection or order of dances used in a class or social.
Example: A class may rotate old favourites, recent teaches and request dances.
Demo
Description: A demonstration of a dance, usually before or after the teach.
Example: The instructor dances one wall so the class can see the pattern.
Diagonal
Description: Moving toward a corner rather than straight forward, back or side.
Example: Step forward right toward 1 o’clock.
Diagonal Shuffle
Description: A shuffle travelling diagonally.
Example: Shuffle forward toward 1 o’clock.
Diamond
Description: A sequence that travels around the floor in a diamond shape.
Example: Steps travel diagonally, side and back to create a four-corner pattern.
Dorothy Step
Description: A syncopated travelling lock step.
Example: Step right diagonally forward, lock left behind, step right diagonally forward. Often counted 1, 2&.
Drag
Description: Pulling one foot slowly toward the weighted foot.
Example: Take a large step right and drag the left foot in towards the right.
Easy Intermediate
Description: A lighter intermediate level with manageable timing and turns.
Example: Intermediate choreography without heavy phrasing or advanced technique.
Ending
Description: A final adjustment added so the dance finishes neatly with the music.
Example: Add a turn or pose to finish facing the front wall.
Fan
Description: A toe or heel swivelling movement.
Example: Fan right toe out to the right, then return it to centre.
Figure Of Eight
Description: A turning weave-style pattern often used across eight counts.
Example: Side, behind, quarter turn, half pivot, quarter turn, behind, side, cross.
Flick
Description: A sharp backward foot lift.
Example: Flick right foot back behind you, usually with a bent knee.
Floor Split
Description: When different groups dance different dances to the same track.
Example: Beginners dance one routine while improvers dance another to the same song.
Floorcraft
Description: Awareness and safe use of space on the dance floor.
Example: Keep steps smaller on a busy floor and avoid travelling into other dancers.
Forward Coaster
Description: A forward-together-back version of a coaster-style movement.
Example: Step forward right, close left beside right, step back right.
Forward Lock Step
Description: A travelling forward step, lock, step pattern.
Example: Step forward right, lock left behind right, step forward right.
Forward Mambo
Description: A forward rock, recover and close step.
Example: Rock forward right, recover onto left, step right beside left.
Forward Rock
Description: Rocking weight forward then recovering back.
Example: Rock forward right, recover left.
Forward Shuffle
Description: A forward travelling triple step.
Example: Step forward right, close left behind right, step forward right.
Forward Together Back
Description: A forward version of a coaster-style action.
Example: Step forward right, close left beside right, step back right.
Freestyle Section
Description: A part of a dance where styling or individual movement may be encouraged.
Example: Four counts where dancers can clap, pose or add attitude.
Freeze
Description: A deliberate hold or stop, often for effect.
Example: Hold a pose for one count during a break in the music.
Front Wall
Description: The wall or direction the dance starts facing.
Example: Finish the dance facing the front wall for the final pose.
Full Turn
Description: A complete 360-degree turn.
Example: Turn a full rotation over two travelling steps.
Grapevine / Vine
Description: A sideways travelling pattern using side, behind, side.
Example: Step right to side, cross left behind, step right to side, touch left beside right.
Grind
Description: A heel rotation action with weight or pressure through the heel.
Example: Place right heel forward and rotate the toe out as weight settles.
Half Turn
Description: A 180-degree turn.
Example: Step forward right, pivot half turn left.
Heel & Toe
Description: A heel touch followed by a toe touch.
Example: Touch right heel forward, touch right toe beside left.
Heel Ball Cross
Description: A heel touch followed by a quick ball step and cross.
Example: Touch right heel forward, step onto ball of right, cross left over right.
Heel Ball Step
Description: A heel touch followed by a quick ball step and step.
Example: Touch right heel forward, step onto ball of right, step forward left.
Heel Bounce
Description: Lifting and lowering the heel to create a bounce or turn.
Example: Bounce both heels twice while turning a quarter left.
Heel Dig
Description: Placing the heel forward without taking full weight.
Example: Dig right heel forward while keeping weight on left.
Heel Grind
Description: A heel dig with a rotating action.
Example: Dig right heel forward, swivel toe from left to right, then step down.
Heel Hook
Description: A heel dig followed by hooking the foot across the opposite leg.
Example: Touch right heel forward, hook right foot across left shin.
Heel Jack
Description: A syncopated movement presenting the heel forward.
Example: Cross right over left, step left back, touch right heel forward.
Heel Split
Description: Moving the heels apart and back together while toes stay closer together.
Example: Split both heels outward, then bring heels back to centre.
Heel Switches
Description: Alternating heel digs using syncopated timing.
Example: Right heel forward, replace, left heel forward, replace.
Heel Toe Swivel
Description: Alternating heel and toe swivel actions.
Example: Swivel heels right, toes right, heels right.
Heel Together
Description: Bringing the heel beside the supporting foot.
Example: Dig right heel forward, close right beside left.
Heel Twist
Description: Twisting both heels together.
Example: Twist both heels right then centre.
High Beginner
Description: A level between Beginner and Improver.
Example: May include simple turns, restarts and light syncopation.
Hip Push
Description: A strong hip action used for styling.
Example: Push right hip out while stepping right.
Hip Roll
Description: A circular movement of the hips.
Example: Roll hips clockwise over two counts.
Hip Sways
Description: Side-to-side hip movements with weight transfer.
Example: Sway hips right, then left.
Hitch
Description: Lifting the knee upward.
Example: Hitch right knee up while standing on the left foot.
Hold / Pause
Description: A pause with no step on that count.
Example: Step on count 3, hold count 4.
Hold Ball Step
Description: A hold followed by a quick ball step and step.
Example: Hold, step onto ball of right, step forward left.
Home Wall
Description: The starting wall of the dance, usually the front wall.
Example: The dance begins on the home wall before rotating to other walls.
Hook
Description: Crossing one foot in front of the opposite leg.
Example: Hook right foot across left shin.
Improver
Description: A level above Beginner and below Intermediate.
Example: More turns, direction changes, syncopation and less repetition.
In Place
Description: A movement performed without travelling around the floor.
Example: Triple step right, left, right on the spot.
Intermediate
Description: A more challenging level with complex timing, turns and choreography.
Example: May include phrasing, syncopated sequences and advanced styling.
Intro
Description: The music before the dance starts.
Example: Start after 16 counts from the beginning of the track.
Jazz Box
Description: A four-count pattern often using cross, back, side, forward.
Example: Cross right over left, step back left, step right to side, step forward left.
Jump
Description: Leaving the floor with both feet.
Example: Jump both feet apart, then jump both feet together.
K Step
Description: A travelling pattern that forms the shape of the letter K.
Example: Step diagonally forward, touch, back to centre, touch, diagonally back, touch, return centre, touch.
Kick
Description: A sharp leg extension, usually forward or to the side.
Example: Kick right foot forward at a comfortable low height.
Kick Ball Change
Description: A kick followed by two quick weight changes.
Example: Kick right forward, step onto ball of right, replace weight onto left.
Kick Ball Cross
Description: A kick followed by a replace and crossing step.
Example: Kick right forward, step onto ball of right, cross left over right.
Kick Ball Step
Description: A kick followed by a quick replace and travelling step.
Example: Kick right forward, step onto ball of right, step forward left.
Kick Cross Touch
Description: A kick followed by a cross touch.
Example: Kick right forward, touch right across left.
Kick Out Out
Description: A kick followed by stepping both feet apart.
Example: Kick right forward, step right out, step left out.
Knee Pop
Description: A quick knee bend or release used for styling.
Example: Pop right knee forward while weight remains mostly on the left.
Knee Roll
Description: A circular movement of the knee used for styling.
Example: Roll the right knee inward then outward before stepping.
Latin Motion
Description: Hip and body action influenced by Latin dance styles.
Example: Allow the hip to settle naturally as weight changes.
Left Sailor / Right Sailor
Description: A sailor step starting with the named foot.
Example: Right sailor starts by crossing right behind left.
Line Of Dance
Description: The general direction dancers travel around the floor.
Example: In partner or circle work, line of dance usually travels anti-clockwise around the room.
Lock Behind
Description: Locking one foot behind the other.
Example: Step forward right, lock left behind right.
Lock In Front
Description: Locking one foot in front of the other.
Example: Step back right, lock left in front of right.
Lock Step
Description: One foot locks closely behind or in front of the other while travelling.
Example: Step forward right, lock left behind right, step forward right.
LOD / RLOD
Description: LOD means Line Of Dance. RLOD means Reverse Line Of Dance.
Example: Travel LOD around the room, or turn and travel RLOD in the opposite direction.
Lunge
Description: A strong weight placement into a bent supporting leg.
Example: Lunge right to side with right knee bent.
Mambo Cross
Description: A mambo action finishing with a cross.
Example: Rock right to side, recover onto left, cross right over left.
Mambo Half Turn
Description: A mambo step including a half turn.
Example: Rock forward right, recover left, turn half right stepping right.
Mambo Quarter Turn
Description: A mambo step including a quarter turn.
Example: Rock forward right, recover left, turn quarter right stepping right.
Mambo Step
Description: A rock-and-replace movement with a closing step.
Example: Rock forward right, recover onto left, step right beside left.
Mashed Potato
Description: A retro twisting step where the feet swivel as they move back.
Example: Twist heels in and out while stepping back right, left, right.
Modified Rumba Box
Description: A variation of a rumba box adjusted for the choreography.
Example: Side, close, forward, touch, then side, close, back, touch.
Monterey Turn
Description: A point, turn and close sequence.
Example: Point right to side, turn ½ right stepping right beside left, point left to side, close left beside right.
Nightclub Basic
Description: A smooth side rock-style basic often used in nightclub two-step influenced line dances.
Example: Step right to side, rock left slightly behind right, recover onto right.
No Tags Or Restarts
Description: The dance runs straight through without added sections or early restarts.
Example: Dance all 32 counts every wall with no changes.
No Weight
Description: The foot touches the floor but does not take body weight.
Example: Touch right beside left with no weight, ready to step right next.
Option
Description: An alternative version of a step, usually easier or non-turning.
Example: Replace a full turn with two walks forward.
Out Out Hold
Description: Step both feet apart, then hold.
Example: Step right out, step left out, hold.
Out-Out / In-In
Description: Stepping both feet apart, then back together.
Example: Step right out, step left out, step right in, step left in.
Paddle Turn
Description: A turn made using repeated small pushing or pointing actions.
Example: Step or touch right to the side while gradually turning left.
Partner Split
Description: When partner or line dancers share the floor with different choreography.
Example: Partner dancers use one area while line dancers use another to the same track.
Phrase
Description: A section of music that may affect the dance structure.
Example: Verse, chorus or instrumental section.
Phrased Dance
Description: A dance structured around musical sections instead of repeating fixed walls.
Example: A dance using an AABA sequence.
Phrased Intermediate
Description: An intermediate dance that follows music phrases using different sections.
Example: Dance A for the verse, B for the chorus, then return to A.
Pivot Turn
Description: A turn made by stepping forward and pivoting on the balls of the feet.
Example: Step forward right, pivot ½ turn left, ending weight on left.
Point
Description: Touching the toe to the floor without taking weight.
Example: Point right toe to the right side.
Point & Point
Description: Alternating point actions.
Example: Point right to side, close, point left to side.
Point Behind
Description: Pointing the toe behind the supporting foot.
Example: Point right toe behind left.
Point Cross
Description: A point followed by a crossing step.
Example: Point right to side, cross right over left.
Point Forward
Description: Pointing the toe forward without weight.
Example: Point right toe forward.
Point Hold
Description: Pointing the foot and holding the position.
Example: Point right to side on count 1, hold count 2.
Point Side
Description: Pointing the toe to the side without weight.
Example: Point right toe to right side.
Prep
Description: A preparation action before a turn or styled movement.
Example: Slight body rotation before a full turn.
Press
Description: A partial weight placement used to push away or change direction.
Example: Press right foot forward, then recover back.
Prissy Walks
Description: Stylish forward walks with the feet crossing slightly.
Example: Walk right slightly across left, walk left slightly across right.
Quarter Turn
Description: A 90-degree turn.
Example: Step forward right, turn ÂĽ left to face the side wall.
Recap
Description: Revisiting a previously taught dance.
Example: A beginner recap before starting a new teach.
Recover
Description: Returning weight after a rock step.
Example: Rock forward right, recover weight back onto left.
Request Dance
Description: A dance requested by dancers at a social, class or event.
Example: Someone asks the DJ or instructor to play a favourite floor split.
Restart
Description: Starting the dance again before completing the full choreography.
Example: Dance the first 16 counts, then restart from count 1.
Restart With Step Change
Description: A restart where the final step before restarting is altered to make the restart work.
Example: Touch instead of stepping with weight so the correct foot is free to restart.
Reverse Turn
Description: A turn in the opposite direction to the expected or previous turn.
Example: Turn left instead of right during a travelling sequence.
Rock & Cross
Description: A rock and recover followed by a cross.
Example: Rock right side, recover left, cross right over left.
Rock & Step
Description: A rock and recover followed by a step.
Example: Rock forward right, recover left, step right back.
Rock Back
Description: Rocking weight backward then recovering.
Example: Rock back right, recover left.
Rock Forward
Description: Rocking weight forward then recovering.
Example: Rock forward right, recover left.
Rock Recover Cross
Description: A rock step followed by a crossing step.
Example: Rock right to side, recover onto left, cross right over left.
Rock Recover Step
Description: A rock step followed by a step rather than a cross or close.
Example: Rock forward right, recover onto left, step right back.
Rock Side
Description: Rocking weight to the side then recovering.
Example: Rock right side, recover left.
Rock Step
Description: A weight change where you step in one direction and recover back.
Example: Rock forward right, recover onto left.
Rocking Chair
Description: A forward rock followed by a back rock.
Example: Rock forward right, recover left, rock back right, recover left.
Rocking Chair With Turn
Description: A rocking chair that includes a turn.
Example: Rock forward, recover, rock back, turn quarter as you recover.
Rolling Vine
Description: A turning version of a grapevine.
Example: Turn ¼ right stepping forward, turn ½ right stepping back, turn ¼ right stepping side.
Rumba Box
Description: A box-shaped step pattern using side closes and forward/back steps.
Example: Step right side, close left, step forward right, hold. Then step left side, close right, step back left, hold.
Run Around
Description: A small circular or turning run sequence.
Example: Run right, left, right while turning around a half or full circle.
Run Back
Description: Running steps travelling backwards.
Example: Run back right, left, right.
Run Back Back Back
Description: Three quick backward running steps.
Example: Run back right, left, right.
Run Forward
Description: Running steps travelling forward.
Example: Run forward right, left, right.
Run Run Run
Description: Three quick running steps.
Example: Run forward right, left, right.
Sailor Cross
Description: A sailor step finishing with a cross.
Example: Cross right behind left, step left side, cross right over left.
Sailor Half Turn
Description: A sailor step turning half a turn.
Example: Cross right behind left while turning half right, step left, step right.
Sailor Quarter Turn
Description: A sailor step turning quarter turn.
Example: Cross right behind left while turning quarter right, step left, step right.
Sailor Step
Description: A crossed-behind triple step with a slight side action.
Example: Cross right behind left, step left to side, step right to side.
Sailor Turn
Description: A sailor step performed with a turn.
Example: Cross right behind left turning ÂĽ right, step left side, step right side.
Samba Cross
Description: A samba-style action finishing with a cross.
Example: Cross right over left, rock left to side, recover onto right.
Samba Step
Description: A syncopated step with a side rock or bounce action, often Latin influenced.
Example: Cross right over left, rock left to side, recover onto right.
Scissor Step
Description: A side, together, cross pattern.
Example: Step right to side, close left beside right, cross right over left.
Scoot
Description: A small sliding hop, usually on the supporting foot.
Example: Hitch right knee and scoot forward on left.
Scuff
Description: Brushing the heel forward along the floor.
Example: Scuff right heel forward before stepping.
Scuff Hitch
Description: A scuff followed by a hitch.
Example: Scuff right heel forward, hitch right knee.
Shimmy
Description: A quick shoulder shake used for styling.
Example: Shimmy shoulders while stepping side right.
Shoe / Boot Scuff
Description: A brush of the heel or sole across the floor.
Example: Scuff the right heel forward before placing the foot down.
Shoulder Pops
Description: Sharp shoulder movements used for styling.
Example: Pop right shoulder forward, then left shoulder forward.
Shuffle
Description: A travelling triple step. In UK line dance this is often counted 1&2.
Example: Step forward right, close left behind right, step forward right.
Shuffle Turn
Description: A shuffle performed while turning.
Example: Shuffle right, left, right while making a quarter turn right.
Side Behind Side Cross
Description: A four-count weave-style sequence.
Example: Step right side, cross left behind, step right side, cross left over right.
Side Close Side
Description: A side-together-side pattern.
Example: Step right side, close left beside right, step right side.
Side Cross
Description: A side step followed by a cross.
Example: Step right side, cross left over right.
Side Drag
Description: A side step with the other foot dragged in.
Example: Step right side, drag left towards right.
Side Mambo
Description: A side rock, recover and close step.
Example: Rock right to side, recover onto left, step right beside left.
Side Rock
Description: Rocking weight to the side, then recovering.
Example: Rock right to right side, recover weight onto left.
Side Rock Cross
Description: A side rock followed by a cross.
Example: Rock right side, recover left, cross right over left.
Side Shuffle
Description: A sideways travelling triple step.
Example: Step right side, close left beside right, step right side.
Side Together
Description: A side step followed by closing the other foot beside it.
Example: Step right side, close left beside right.
Side Together Back
Description: A side-close-back pattern.
Example: Step right side, close left, step back right.
Side Together Forward
Description: A side-close-forward pattern.
Example: Step right side, close left, step forward right.
Side Touch
Description: Touching the foot to the side without taking weight.
Example: Touch right toe to right side.
Side Wall
Description: Either wall to the side of the starting wall.
Example: After a quarter turn right, you face the right side wall.
Skate
Description: A gliding step angled slightly outward, like ice skating.
Example: Skate right diagonally forward, skate left diagonally forward.
Skater Step
Description: A sequence of skate-style travelling steps.
Example: Skate right, skate left, skate right.
Slap
Description: A styling action where the hand taps the foot, boot or thigh.
Example: Flick right foot back and slap the heel with the right hand.
Slide
Description: A smooth travelling movement where one foot glides or is drawn in.
Example: Large step right, slide left foot toward right.
Slow Coaster
Description: A coaster step danced more slowly over more counts.
Example: Step back, close, forward using slower timing.
Slow Shuffle
Description: A shuffle danced with slower or more deliberate timing.
Example: Step right, close left, step right with a slower feel.
Social Floor
Description: The dance floor at a social event where requested and popular dances are played.
Example: A DJ plays floor splits so different levels can dance together.
Spiral Turn
Description: A tight turn where one foot crosses over and the body unwinds.
Example: Cross left over right and unwind a full turn right.
Split Floor
Description: Another term for floor split, where multiple dances are danced to the same track.
Example: Beginners dance one routine while intermediate dancers dance another.
Step Back
Description: Stepping backwards with weight.
Example: Step back right.
Step Close
Description: Step to the side and close the other foot beside it.
Example: Step right side, close left beside right.
Step Drag
Description: Step and drag the other foot towards the supporting foot.
Example: Step right side, drag left in.
Step Forward
Description: Stepping forward with weight.
Example: Step forward right.
Step Hitch
Description: A step followed by lifting the opposite knee.
Example: Step forward right, hitch left knee.
Step Kick
Description: A step followed by a kick with the opposite foot.
Example: Step forward right, kick left forward.
Step Lock Step
Description: A travelling pattern using a step, lock, step action.
Example: Step forward right, lock left behind right, step forward right.
Step Out
Description: Stepping a foot away from the centre line.
Example: Step right out to the right side.
Step Pivot
Description: A step forward followed by a pivot turn.
Example: Step forward right, pivot half turn left.
Step Point
Description: A step followed by pointing the opposite foot.
Example: Step forward right, point left to side.
Step Sheet
Description: The written instructions for a line dance.
Example: A CopperKnob-style page listing counts, walls, level, music and choreography.
Step Sweep
Description: A step followed by a circular sweep of the opposite foot.
Example: Step forward right, sweep left from back to front.
Step Together
Description: Stepping one foot then closing the other beside it.
Example: Step right side, close left beside right.
Step Together Step
Description: A three-step side or travelling pattern.
Example: Step right side, close left, step right side.
Step Touch
Description: A step followed by a touch beside the supporting foot.
Example: Step right side, touch left beside right.
Step Turn Step
Description: A step, turn and step sequence.
Example: Step forward right, turn half left, step forward right.
Stomp
Description: A strong step placed firmly onto the floor.
Example: Stomp right beside left with weight.
Stomp Up
Description: A stomp without fully transferring weight.
Example: Stomp right beside left but keep weight on left.
Strut
Description: A two-part walking action, usually toe then heel or heel then toe.
Example: Step right toe forward, drop right heel.
Styling
Description: Personal or choreographed expression added to the basic steps.
Example: Add a hip roll, arm line, shoulder pop or pose where appropriate.
Sugarfoot
Description: A toe and heel swivelling movement.
Example: Touch toe in, touch heel out, then step.
Sway
Description: Controlled side-to-side body or hip movement.
Example: Step right and sway body right, then sway left.
Sweep
Description: A circular movement of the foot across the floor.
Example: Sweep right foot from back to front before stepping.
Swivel
Description: Twisting the heels or toes while the feet stay in contact with the floor.
Example: Swivel both heels right, then back to centre.
Swivet
Description: A swivel action where one heel and the opposite toe move out together.
Example: Move right toe and left heel out, then return to centre.
Syncopated Jazz Box
Description: A jazz box with quicker steps placed between main beats.
Example: Cross, back, side, cross using & counts.
Syncopated Rock
Description: A rock and recover using quicker timing.
Example: Rock right to side on &, recover left on 1.
Syncopation
Description: Steps placed between the main beats of the music.
Example: A step on the “&” count between 1 and 2.
Tag
Description: Extra steps added at a specific point in a dance.
Example: Add a 4-count rocking chair after wall 3.
Tag & Restart
Description: A dance feature where extra steps are added before restarting the dance.
Example: Add a 4-count tag, then restart the dance from count 1.
Tap
Description: Touching the floor without weight transfer.
Example: Tap right toe beside left.
Teach
Description: The instructional part of a class where dancers learn choreography.
Example: “We’ll do the teach after the break.”
Tempo
Description: The speed or pace of the music.
Example: A slower tempo may suit beginners learning new footwork.
Three Quarter Turn
Description: A 270-degree turn.
Example: Turn three quarters right to face the next side wall.
Timing
Description: How steps fit the beats and rhythm of the music.
Example: A shuffle is often timed 1&2.
Toe Bounce
Description: Lifting and lowering the toes while the heels stay down.
Example: Bounce toes twice to match the beat.
Toe Fan
Description: Swivelling the toe outward and back in.
Example: Fan right toe out to the side, then return to centre.
Toe Heel Cross
Description: A toe-heel action finishing with a cross step.
Example: Touch right toe in, touch right heel out, cross right over left.
Toe Heel Step
Description: A toe-heel action finishing with a step.
Example: Touch right toe in, touch right heel out, step right forward.
Toe Heel Stomp
Description: A three-part foot pattern using toe, heel and stomp.
Example: Touch right toe in, touch right heel out, stomp right forward.
Toe Heel Swivel
Description: A toe and heel swivel action.
Example: Swivel toe out, then heel out.
Toe Split
Description: Moving the toes apart and back together while heels stay closer together.
Example: Split both toes outward, then bring toes back to centre.
Toe Strut
Description: A two-count step placing toe first, then lowering the heel.
Example: Step right toe forward, drop right heel.
Toe Switches
Description: Alternating toe touches using syncopated timing.
Example: Touch right toe side, replace, touch left toe side, replace.
Toe Touch
Description: Touching the toe to the floor without weight.
Example: Touch right toe beside left.
Touch
Description: Placing the foot on the floor without transferring weight.
Example: Touch right beside left on count 4.
Touch Across
Description: Touching the foot across the supporting leg.
Example: Touch right toe across left.
Touch Behind
Description: Touching the toe behind the supporting foot.
Example: Touch right toe behind left.
Touch Forward
Description: Touching the toe forward without weight.
Example: Touch right toe forward.
Touch Hold
Description: Touching the foot and holding the position.
Example: Touch right beside left on count 1, hold count 2.
Touch Out
Description: Touching the foot out to the side.
Example: Touch right toe out to right side.
Touch Step
Description: A touch followed by stepping onto that foot.
Example: Touch right beside left, then step right to side.
Touch Turn
Description: A touch used to lead into or mark a turn.
Example: Touch right to side, turn quarter right and step right.
Triple Full Turn
Description: A triple step making a full turn.
Example: Triple right-left-right while turning full turn.
Triple Half Turn
Description: A triple step making a half turn.
Example: Triple right-left-right while turning half turn.
Triple Step
Description: Three steps danced over two beats.
Example: Right, left, right counted 1&2.
Turn Step
Description: A turn followed by stepping onto the foot.
Example: Turn quarter right and step right.
Turn ¼ / Turn ½ / Turn ¾
Description: A shorthand for quarter, half or three-quarter turns.
Example: Turn ¼ right, turn ½ left or turn ¾ right as written.
Twinkle
Description: A crossing step pattern often used in waltz or nightclub-style dances.
Example: Cross right over left, step left side, step right side.
Unwind
Description: Turning while the feet are crossed.
Example: Cross right over left, unwind half turn left.
Unwind Full Turn
Description: A full turn made from a crossed position.
Example: Cross right over left, unwind full turn left.
Unwind Half Turn
Description: A half turn made from a crossed position.
Example: Cross right over left, unwind half turn left.
V Step
Description: A four-count movement where the feet step outward into a V shape, then back together.
Example: Step right diagonally forward, step left diagonally forward, step right back to centre, close left beside right.
Vaudeville
Description: A syncopated cross, side and heel sequence.
Example: Cross right over left, step left slightly back, touch right heel forward.
Vine Quarter Turn
Description: A vine that includes a quarter turn.
Example: Step side, behind, turn quarter, step.
Volta
Description: A samba-influenced travelling crossing action.
Example: Cross right over left, step left slightly side, cross right over left.
12 o’clock / 3 o’clock / 6 o’clock / 9 o’clock
Description: Clock-face directions used to describe walls or diagonals.
Example: 12 o’clock is the front wall, 3 o’clock is the right side wall, 6 o’clock is the back wall.
Walk Back
Description: Walking steps backwards.
Example: Walk back right, walk back left.
Walk Forward
Description: Walking steps forwards.
Example: Walk forward right, walk forward left.
Walk Walk
Description: Two walking steps, usually forward or back.
Example: Walk forward right, walk forward left.
Walkthrough
Description: Teaching or practising a dance without music.
Example: The instructor talks dancers through the counts slowly.
Wall
Description: The direction you are facing when dancing.
Example: A 4-wall dance repeats facing front, side, back and side walls.
Wall Sequence
Description: The order of walls or directions used through a dance.
Example: A dance may move from 12 o’clock to 3 o’clock, then 6 o’clock, then 9 o’clock.
Waltz Basic
Description: A basic three-count waltz movement.
Example: Step forward, step side, close on counts 1, 2, 3.
Waltz Twinkle
Description: A waltz crossing pattern over three counts.
Example: Cross right over left, step left side, step right side.
Weave
Description: A travelling crossing pattern, usually over, side, behind, side.
Example: Cross right over left, step left side, cross right behind left, step left side.
Weight On
Description: Indicates which foot carries the body weight.
Example: If weight is on left, the right foot is free to move next.
Weight Transfer
Description: Moving full body weight onto a foot.
Example: Step fully onto right before moving the left foot.
Wizard Step
Description: Another name often used for a Dorothy-style syncopated lock step.
Example: Step right diagonally forward, lock left behind, step right forward on the & count.
Workshop Floor
Description: The dance space used during a workshop teach or event.
Example: Dancers spread out on the workshop floor to learn a new dance.
