Final answer:
In ballet, "écarté" [ay-har-TAY] is a French term that describes a dancer's body position, specifically the positioning of the legs and torso.
Step-by-step explanation:
When a dancer performs an écarté position, they are essentially facing one side, either the front or the back, with the legs apart and extended in opposite directions. The standing leg is typically the one facing forward, while the other leg is extended to the side, creating a diagonal line with the torso and limbs.
Écarté is part of the fundamental vocabulary of classical ballet and is often used as a transitional or preparatory position for other movements and poses. It helps create elegant lines and adds depth and dimension to a dancer's performance.
Écarté can be executed in various directions, such as écarté devant (front) or écarté derrière (back), depending on the choreography's requirements. This position showcases the dancer's control, balance, and flexibility, contributing to the overall grace and beauty of ballet performances.