Boogie
/ˈbuː.ɡi/noun
To dance energetically, or a style of blues-based music designed for dancing.
Did you know?The exact origin is disputed, but “boogie” may be connected with African American musical language and possibly with “bogey,” a name for a frightening supernatural being.
Etymological Timeline
19th Century
African American English
boogie
“A regional or musical term of uncertain origin, later associated with energetic dancing and blues performance.”
Late 19th–Early 20th Century
English
bogey
“A frightening or mischievous spirit; a possible source or influence for some uses of “boogie,” though the connection is not certain.”
1910s
American English
boogie-woogie
“A lively, rhythmically repeated style of piano blues, often performed for dancing.”
1920s
American English
boogie
“To dance, especially energetically; a shortened form associated with “boogie-woogie.””
20th Century
English
boogie
“A broad popular term for dancing and for upbeat dance music.”
Modern English
English
boogie
“To dance enthusiastically, or to refer to boogie-based music and dance.”