Definition of the word square dance

The origin of the term "square dance" can be traced back to the early 19th century in the United States. The dance, which involves couples dancing in a square formation, was originally called a "contradance" or "country dance." However, in the early 1800s, some communities began to refer to the dance as a "square dance" due to the four-sided, bordering layout of the dancers. The term "square" in this context likely refers to the four equal sides of the square formation that the dancers make, rather than the shape implying anything negative or rigid. The use of the term "square dance" became more widespread as the dance became increasingly popular across the United States in the 1930s and 1940s, thanks in part to radio broadcasts and traveling dance troupes. Today, square dancing remains a popular feature of traditional American folk culture and continues to be enjoyed by communities around the country.