allemande left

English

Etymology

French allemande (“German”) + English left. Contrary to some folk etymologies, this term does not come from the phrase "A la main" (by the hand).

Noun

allemande left (plural allemande lefts)

1. (square dance) Move in which two facing dancers take left hands or forearms, turn halfway around to the left, let go, and step forward.

See also

• square dance