Pirouette

A pirouette is a turning movement in dance, most commonly associated with classical ballet. It is a complete rotation of the body around a vertical axis on a single supporting foot, with the working leg typically held in a turned-out position such as passé or retiré. The turn is performed with the torso upright and the arms guiding momentum and balance.

Technique: The turn begins from a plié or demi-plié in fifth or first position, followed by a rise onto demi-pointe or pointe. The dancer uses turnout from the hips, a strong core, and an aligned supporting leg. Spotting—where the head and eyes briefly fix on a single point—helps control dizziness as the torso rotates. The non-supporting leg enters the passé or retire position and the arms circle to maintain balance, often finishing in fifth position before landing.

Variations: Pirouettes are classified by direction: en dehors (turning outward, away from the supporting leg) and en dedans (turning inward, toward the supporting leg). The working leg passes through passé or retiré, and the turn may be executed in relevé or on pointe. Other related turns include multiple-pirouette sequences and the fouetté turn.

Other contexts: In figure skating and other dance disciplines, a pirouette refers to a spin on one foot. Proper technique emphasizes balance, turnout, core control, spotting, and a controlled descent.

Origin: The term pirouette is French, used in ballet since the 18th century to describe a whirling movement.