CultureJuly 16, 2026
quadrille
/kwɒˈdrɪl/
Definition
A 18th-century social dance performed by four couples in a rectangular formation, originating from French court society.
Etymology
Derived from the French 'quadrille' and Spanish 'cuadrilla' (a small square troop), the term originally referred to a small group of cavalry. It entered English in the 18th century to describe the square formation dance common in aristocratic ballrooms.
In the news
The article uses this term to explain the European roots of Irish set dances, highlighting how historical continental styles evolved into modern traditional Irish dance.
Tonnta na hEorpa: European influence on Irish music and dance
Read the full article ↗Ireland.ie