IPA: /ˈkeɪkˌwɔk/
KK: /ˈkeɪkˌwɔk/
To dance in a lively and exaggerated manner, often in a strutting style.
They decided to cakewalk at the festival, showing off their best dance moves.
Past: cakewalked
Past Participle: cakewalked
A type of dance or performance where participants show off their walking skills, often for a prize, or something that is very easy to do.
Winning the competition was a cakewalk for her because she practiced so much.
Cakewalk originates from the American English term referring to a type of dance competition where the prize was often a cake. The word combines 'cake' (from Old Norse 'kaka', meaning a baked flour confection) and 'walk' (from Old English 'wealcan', meaning to move or walk). The term implies an easy task, as the dance was seen as simple and enjoyable.
Imagine a fun dance where the prize is a cake — that's why 'cakewalk' means an easy task, as it suggests something enjoyable and simple.