cavort

UK: kəˈvɔːt | US: kəˈvɔːrt

Definition

  1. vi. to leap or dance about excitedly

  2. vi. to behave in a playful or exaggerated way

Structure
cav <horse>ort <twist>cav <horse>ort <twist>
Etymology

First recorded in the early 19th century, cavort blends the vigor of a horse’s gallop (cav) with a playful, twisting motion (ort). Originally used to describe spirited horse movements, it later generalized to human exuberance. The word’s whimsical sound mirrors its lively meaning.

Examples

  1. The children cavorted in the sprinklers on the hot afternoon.

  2. Puppies cavorted around the garden, chasing their tails.

  3. The dancers cavorted across the stage with infectious energy.

  4. After the rain, frogs cavorted in the puddles.

  5. He cavorted like a clown to amuse the crowd.