A courante is a court dance which was hugely popular in European ballrooms from the 16th century well into the 18th century. The word comes from the Latin word "cuerre" which means "to run."
The dance is known for its little back and forth spiraling steps which would graduate into quick graceful glides to musical accompaniment in triple time. The courante dance is essentially of two principal varieties: the French and Italian. The French dance is slow and more romantic while the Italian version is faster and more intense.
The phrase "au courant" means up-to-date, or having the latest bit of information or news. A person who is "au courant" is respected for his knowledge about the current and contemporary happenings around him.
The dance is known for its little back and forth spiraling steps which would graduate into quick graceful glides to musical accompaniment in triple time. The courante dance is essentially of two principal varieties: the French and Italian. The French dance is slow and more romantic while the Italian version is faster and more intense.
The phrase "au courant" means up-to-date, or having the latest bit of information or news. A person who is "au courant" is respected for his knowledge about the current and contemporary happenings around him.