dance on a rope

The idiom "dance on a rope" has historical roots and varying meanings, from literal performance to figurative danger.

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Definition

C2Historical

(dated, criminal slang)To be executed by hanging.

Example

  • In old criminal slang, to 'dance on a rope' meant to be hanged for one's crimes.

B2Entertainment

(literal, performance)To perform a tightrope walk.

Example

  • The circus performer was famous for dancing on a rope high above the ground.

C1Figurative

(metaphorical)To navigate a risky or precarious situation with skill.

Example

  • He felt like he was dancing on a rope, trying to balance his work and personal life.

Similar

Terms that have similar or relatively close meanings to "dance on a rope":

on the high ropejump roperope upskip ropedance aroundskipping ropepole dancetoe dancepole dancingrope yarntap dancedance to a new tunejump arounddance flydevil dancejump aboutlet's danceon the ropes