Glossary of Figure Skating Terms - D

D

Dance

See ice dancing.

Dance jump

In ice dancing, a small jump used to change foot or direction. The jump is performed by both partners while in hold or while very close together.

Dance lift

Type of lift where the lifter may not raise his arms above his shoulders.

Dance spin

A spin performed in ice dancing by both partners while in hold. It is similar to a pair spin.

Death drop

A type of flying entry into a spin.

Death spiral

An element in pair skating in which the woman skates on a deep edge with her body close to the ice and skates in a circle around the man, who is in a low pivot position and holding her by the arm.

Discipline

A part of skating governed by unique rules. Currently, the four disciplines that compete at the Olympic Games are men's singles, ladies singles, pair skating, and ice dancing.

Double

A jump with two full rotations (720 degrees) in the air (two and a half rotations for double Axel).

Downgraded

A jump or throw jump where the element is missing a half rotation or more.

Draw

The act of choosing the starting order before the event. May be either open (public) or closed (private).