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What is a Jig?

Malcolm Tatum
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Updated: May 23, 2024
Views: 20,358
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Originating as a Scottish folk dance, jigs are usually characterized by their use of compound meters. For instance, a double jig is usually transcribed with a 6/8 tempo, while a slip jig is usually transcribed with a meter of 9/8. Scottish versions of this dance come in several different types, with the double jig being among the most popular. One very popular Irish version is the Irish Washerwoman.

Just about all jigs are built on a foundation of two eight-bar parts, with each part being repeated at least once. As is true with just about all Scottish music, it is not unusual to string two or more jigs into one continuous play and dance. Dancing is a task that requires a lot of energy and a great deal of enthusiasm. The fast pace of the song makes it a particularly energetic and happy dance, which allowed it to find its way into American slang vernacular with a great deal of ease.

During modern times, many people have used the phrase “dance a jig” when something wonderful has happened in their lives and they wish to express the sense of euphoria they are feeling at the time. Today, even people who have never seen a jig danced nor have any idea of the origins of the phrase understand clearly that this phrase means to be very happy with a course of events.

It is important to note that jigs can be danced individually or as part of a two-person unit. If the dance is danced by a team, the task will require a great deal of coordination between the two partners, as the quick pace of the music and the dance can lead to some interesting twists and turns.

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Malcolm Tatum
By Malcolm Tatum
Malcolm Tatum, a former teleconferencing industry professional, followed his passion for trivia, research, and writing to become a full-time freelance writer. He has contributed articles to a variety of print and online publications, including Sports n' Hobbies, and his work has also been featured in poetry collections, devotional anthologies, and newspapers. When not writing, Malcolm enjoys collecting vinyl records, following minor league baseball, and cycling.
Discussion Comments
By Azuza — On Sep 22, 2011

@KaBoom - That sounds like a lot of fun. I would love to see a jig. I've been using the phrase "I won't make you get up and dance a jig or anything" for years and I just realized I have no idea what a jig is! The article gives a pretty good description though!

By KaBoom — On Sep 21, 2011

There is a Scottish pub near my parent's house. They host various evening with entertainment. For instance, they do one night where a group comes and sings sea chanty's.

One night when I was there they had a live band and some people got up and started doing a sort of line dance. My parents told me they were actually doing a jig! It looked fun, but I have two left feet so I didn't join it!

By seag47 — On Sep 20, 2011

My town has an arts festival every year, and music and dancing are always a part of it. Last year, some Scottish dancers put on a show, and yes, they danced a jig.

Their ages varied from twenty to fifty. I was amazed at the level of energy that they all were able to maintain throughout what seemed like a long song.

I spoke with one of the older dancers afterward, and she told me that she had been dancing jigs for decades. She never took a long hiatus from dancing, so she had maintained her ability to keep up the pace.

By lighth0se33 — On Sep 20, 2011

I have heard the term “dance a jig” all my life, and I knew it meant a happy dance, but I didn’t know its origin. My grandfather used the term a lot.

Whenever someone would do something nice for him, he would tell them, “I will dance a jig at your wedding.” Then, he would illustrate with a goofy, happy dance. I couldn’t help but laugh every time.

I thought he was kidding, but at my wedding reception, he had a surprise for me. He came out in a kilt and actually danced a jig. He had the band play something Celtic, and he danced through the whole song. Everyone laughed and clapped along.

Malcolm Tatum
Malcolm Tatum
Malcolm Tatum, a former teleconferencing industry professional, followed his passion for trivia, research, and writing...
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