war dance

• Ein zeremonieller Tanz, der von einigen Stammeskulturen, insbesondere indigenen Völkern, vor einem Krieg oder zur Feier eines Sieges aufgeführt wird. Im modernen Kontext kann der Begriff auch jede aggressive oder einschüchternde Zurschaustellung von Konfliktbereitschaft bezeichnen.

A ceremonial dance performed by certain tribal cultures, especially indigenous peoples, before going to war or to celebrate a victory. In modern contexts, it can also refer to any aggressive or intimidating display of readiness for conflict.

1. Ritual dance before battleB2formal

   A ceremonial dance performed by members of a tribe or group before going to war, intended to intimidate enemies and boost the warriors' morale.

   Ritualtanz vor der Schlacht

   • The Maori performed a powerful war dance called the haka before the rugby match.
   • The tribe's war dance involved rhythmic stomping and fierce chanting.
   • War dances were often used to prepare warriors mentally for combat.

2. Aggressive or energetic displayB2informal

   A figurative term for any aggressive, energetic, or intimidating display of strength or emotion, often in sports or competition.

   Kriegstanz

   • The team did a war dance in the locker room before the big game.
   • His speech was a verbal war dance, full of threats and bravado.
   • The protesters performed a war dance to show their defiance.