verb (used without object), danced, dancing. 1. to move one's feet or body, or both, rhythmically in a pattern of steps, especially to the accompaniment of music. 2. to leap, skip, etc., as from excitement or emotion; move nimbly or quickly: to dance with joy. 3. to bob up and down: The toy sailboats danced on the pond. verb (used with object), danced, dancing.