What does “Chassé” mean in ballet?
(Literally 'chased.') A sliding movement forward, backward, or sideways with both legs bent, then springing into the air with legs straight and together. It can be done either in a gallop or by pushing the leading foot along the floor in a plié to cause an upward spring. It is typically performed in a series or as part of a combination of other movements. A sliding movement as described above, but without the jump aspect. Instead, the leading foot is pushed along the floor in plié as described above, as a transition into another movement or position.
New to ballet? Read our ballet guide — history, the five positions, class structure and how adults can start.
Definition adapted from Glossary of ballet on Wikipedia, CC BY-SA 4.0.
Nearby terms
Brisé
( ; literally 'broken') A jump consisting of an assemblé traveling either forward (en avan…
Cabriole
( ; meaning 'caper.') An allegro step in which the extended legs are beaten in the air. Ca…
Cambré
( ; literally 'arched.') A bending at the waist in any direction, forward, backward, or to…
Changement de pied
( ; literally 'change, changing.') A jump in which the feet change positions in the air. F…
Chaînés
( ; 'chained', plural.) Also known as "chaînés turns", a common abbreviation for tours cha…
Cloche, en
( ; meaning 'like a bell.') Refers to brushing through first position from fourth devant o…
Coda
; literally 'tail'). The concluding segment of a performance or suite of dances comprising…
Corps de ballet
The ensemble of a ballet company, especially the ensemble apart from the featured dancers.…