Definition
A street dance style featuring rhythmic contractions and releases of muscles throughout the body, creating a 'popping' effect that locks and releases in time with the music. Often performed to funk and electronic music, it predates breakdancing and heavily influenced hip-hop dance.
Example Usage
She demonstrated popping with smooth muscle isolations that perfectly matched the beat of the funk track.
Origin
Originated in Fresno, California in the 1970s, with dancers like the Electric Boogaloo Lockers helping popularize the technique before it merged into hip-hop culture.
Fun Fact
Popping emphasizes body isolation and texture, with variations including 'ticking,' 'strobing,' and 'waving,' each creating distinct visual effects.
Related Terms
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See “popping” in Corporate Speak, Gen-Z Slang, Pirate Speak, and more.
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