Ballet Term
Dessus
Dessus is the opposite of Dessous. It’s a common term used in ballet meaning “over.” Dessous is used to define movements or steps where the working leg r foot passes over or infant of the supporting leg.
Dessus means “over,” and it is the direct opposite of dessous, which means “under.” Neither word is a step on its own. Instead they describe which way the working leg or foot passes in relation to the supporting leg during a movement.
When a step is done dessus, the working foot passes over or in front of the supporting leg. You will most often meet the word in a pas de bourrée dessus, a small traveling step where the working foot crosses in front as the dancer moves sideways. In the matching dessous version, the foot passes behind instead.
Because these two words only tell you the direction of the crossing, learning them as a pair makes combinations much easier to follow. Once you know dessus means the foot goes over the front and dessous means it goes under the back, a called-out step instantly makes more sense.
Good to know
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between dessus and dessous?
Dessus means "over," so the working foot passes in front of the supporting leg. Dessous means "under," so the foot passes behind. They are direction words used with steps like pas de bourrée.
Is dessus a step by itself?
No. It describes the direction a step travels, telling you the working foot passes over or in front. It is always paired with another step, most often a pas de bourrée.