Dance term
Lock step
A travelling step where one foot crosses tightly behind or in front of the other and briefly 'locks', used to move quickly and lightly.
In a lock step one foot crosses tightly behind the other so the legs briefly 'lock' together, then the movement continues. It lets a dancer travel fast while staying light and neat, which is why it is a staple of the quickstep.
Danced in a chain it produces the skimming, running-on-air look the quickstep is known for.
Also called: lock.
Where you'll meet it
Words only get you so far. See lock step in motion with YODS video lessons and a live AI coach.
Create a free account