tarantism Definition
- 1an uncontrollable urge to dance, which was prevalent in southern Italy from the 15th to the 17th century and often attributed to the bite of a tarantula or wolf spider
- 2a mania characterized by an uncontrollable impulse to dance, especially prevalent in southern Italy from the 15th to the 17th century, popularly attributed to the bite of the tarantula
- 3a psychological disorder characterized by an irresistible urge to dance, common in southern Italy from the 15th to the 17th century, often attributed to the bite of the tarantula
Using tarantism: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "tarantism" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
The villagers believed that the only cure for tarantism was to dance wildly to the sound of tambourines.
Example
Tarantism was a widespread phenomenon in southern Italy during the Renaissance period.
Example
The medical community now recognizes tarantism as a form of mass hysteria.
tarantism Synonyms and Antonyms
Synonyms for tarantism
- choreomania
- dance mania
Phrases with tarantism
a lively folk dance originating in southern Italy, often performed at a fast tempo and accompanied by tambourines
Example
The tarantella is a popular dance at Italian weddings.
Example
The tarantula hawk is one of the largest wasps in the world.
a type of spider that does not spin webs but hunts for its prey, often found in grassy areas
Example
The wolf spider is known for its excellent eyesight and hunting skills.
Origins of tarantism
from Taranto, a city in southern Italy where the phenomenon was first recorded
Summary: tarantism in Brief
Tarantism [tuh-ran-tiz-uhm] is an uncontrollable urge to dance, often attributed to the bite of a tarantula or wolf spider. It was prevalent in southern Italy from the 15th to the 17th century and is now recognized as a form of mass hysteria. The term is related to the lively folk dance called tarantella.
