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Shake Da Foot

Monday Maxims

Oct 7

Other Scottish Country Dances for this Day

Today's Musings, History & Folklore

"Shake a leg and Shake Da Foot!"

In Scotland, the expression "shake da foot" originates from the Shetland Islands dialect, particularly influenced by the Norse heritage in that region. It means to dance or to enjoy a lively time. "Shake da foot" is akin to telling someone to get up, have fun, and join in the merriment, embodying the Shetland community's love for music, dance, and sociability. Featuring an "ancient poussette" and an "old setting step" this strathspey contains plenty of opportunities to enjoy the dance! 😃 🦿 🦿 🦿

Shake Da Foot

Apart from the expression for this namesake dance, the word "shake" is quite versatile in English, appearing in numerous idiomatic expressions and phrases.


Here’s a list of expressions in English using the word "shake":


Shake a leg – To hurry up or get moving.
Shake things up – To introduce change or create disruption, often in a positive way.
Shake to the core – To deeply affect or impact someone emotionally.
Shake hands – To greet someone or to show agreement.
Shake it off – To let go of stress, mistakes, or negative emotions.
Shake like a leaf – To tremble uncontrollably due to fear or anxiety.
Shake one's head – To express disagreement, disapproval, or disbelief.
Shake down – To search thoroughly or extort money.
Shake on it – To make an agreement, usually sealed by a handshake.
Shake up – To mix or blend, or to startle or disturb someone or something.
Shake out – To unfold or resolve, often used for problems or difficulties.
Shaken, not stirred – Made famous by James Bond, typically refers to how a cocktail, like a martini, is prepared.



For more dance expressions similar to "shake a leg", click the dancers!

Shake Da Foot

Click the dance cribs or description below to link to a printable version of the dance!

Shake Da Foot

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The majority of dance descriptions referenced on this site have been taken from the

 

Scottish Country Dancing Dictionary or the

Scottish Country Dancing Database 

 

Snapshots of dance descriptions are provided as an overview only.  As updates may have occurred, please click the dance description to be forwarded to a printable dance description or one of the official reference sources.

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