terre à terre

adjective

¦terə¦te(ə)r

1

a

: performed on or close to the ground or floor : performed with little elevation

terre à terre dancing

b

: performing with the feet close to the ground

terre à terre dancer

2

: lacking in imagination : matter-of-fact, prosaic

Word History

Etymology

French, literally, earth to earth

The Ultimate Dictionary Awaits

Expand your vocabulary and dive deeper into language with Merriam-Webster Unabridged.

1. Expanded definitions
2. Detailed etymologies
3. Advanced search tools
4. All ad-free

Discover what makes Merriam-Webster Unabridged the essential choice for true word lovers.

Start Your Free Trial Now