Definition

A ballet dancer who performs in a small group rather than as part of the main group or as a solo dancer.

Example

The coryphee gracefully executed her movements alongside her fellow dancers.

Conversation

Have you ever seen a coryphee perform in a ballet?

No, I haven't, but I've heard they are amazing dancers.

They really are, especially in the way they move in harmony with the group.

That sounds beautiful! I'd love to see a performance like that.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Coryphee → The word originates from the French 'coryphée', which comes from the Greek 'koryphaios' (meaning chief or leader). In the context of ballet, it refers to a dancer who is a leader or principal among the corps de ballet.

Memory Tip

Think of a 'chief' or 'leader' ('koryphaios') in a dance setting — that's why a coryphee is a principal dancer.

Visually Confused Words