attitude

at·ti·tude

noun \ˈa-tə-ˌtüd, -ˌtyüd\

Definition of ATTITUDE

1

: the arrangement of the parts of a body or figure : posture

2

: a position assumed for a specific purpose <a threatening attitude>

3

: a ballet position similar to the arabesque in which the raised leg is bent at the knee

4

a : a mental position with regard to a fact or state <a helpful attitude> b : a feeling or emotion toward a fact or state

5

: the position of an aircraft or spacecraft determined by the relationship between its axes and a reference datum (as the horizon or a particular star)

6

: an organismic state of readiness to respond in a characteristic way to a stimulus (as an object, concept, or situation)

7

a : a negative or hostile state of mind b : a cool, cocky, defiant, or arrogant manner

Examples of ATTITUDE

1. He has a positive attitude about the changes.
2. She's friendly and has a good attitude.
3. You need to change your bad attitude.
4. There's been a change in his attitude since his accident.
5. I don't know what her problem is. She has a real attitude.
6. I suggest you get rid of that attitude and shape up.
7. He was showing some attitude during practice today, so the coach benched him.

Origin of ATTITUDE

French, from Italian attitudine, literally, aptitude, from Late Latin aptitudin-, aptitudo fitness — more at aptitude

First Known Use: 1668

Related to ATTITUDE

Synonyms: posture, carriage, poise, stance, station

Related Words: attention; body language; pose, seat; bearing, behavior, conduct, demeanor, deportment; air, poise, presence; aspect, look, mien

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Other Dance Terms

honor, saltatory, sashay, taw