Literary notes about sashay (AI summary)
In literature, "sashay" emerges as a versatile term that captures both a literal and a metaphorical sense of movement. It often depicts a graceful or flamboyant locomotion, whether it's someone confidently moving across a dance floor ([1]) or parading through a social scene with a distinctive flair ([2]). At times, the word carries a subtle irony or critique—as when it underscores flamboyant behavior or pretentiousness in attire ([3])—while in other contexts it portrays a more casual, even sardonic, navigation through a setting, be it a bustling bar or a choreographed group dance ([4], [5]). This variety in usage illustrates how authors employ "sashay" to evoke images of stylish, deliberate movement that communicates more than just physical transit.
- Next he calls, 'Sashay to de right, [Pg 235] and do-si-do.'
— from Slave Narratives: a Folk History of Slavery in the United States From Interviews with Former Slaves.Texas Narratives, Part 2 by United States. Work Projects Administration - No, Lutie never got out of her Dream until she made a bold Sashay with a Concert Company.
— from More Fables by George Ade - You are extravagant, and it wounds me, I guess, To see you sashay about dressed like a princess.
— from Tartuffe; Or, The Hypocrite by Molière - Say "How!" make a bow, and sashay down the middle ; Shake yo'r leg lively at the Cowboys' Ball.
— from Songs of the Cattle Trail and Cow Camp - Paper 'n' pencil, Bud—get busy an' I'll sashay over an' send it off for ye—t'night."
— from The Definite Object: A Romance of New York by Jeffery Farnol