from
The Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48
break dancing \break" danc`ing\ n.
a type of solo dancing in which the dancer performs elaborate
footwork, pantomime, and various acrobatic movements, such as
spinning head stands or spinning on the back, and usually
containing much improvization. It was first performed by male
teenagers in the 1970's, in small informal groups on the
streets, and is often performed to the accompaniment of rap
music or other rock music with a rapid, strong beat. --
{break" dance`}, n. -- {break" dan`cer}, n.
[PJC]