Ballet Term
Jeté
A Jeté is ballet term for a jump where the dancer extends one leg and then jumps off the floor with the other. There are many forms of Jeté’s including petit, grande, battu, and more.
A jeté is a jump where the dancer brushes one leg out and springs off the other, throwing the body into the air. The word means thrown, which describes how the working leg is thrown out to start the jump. Jetés come in a whole family of sizes and styles, from tiny quick ones to soaring leaps across the stage.
How it is performed
The working leg brushes out along the floor and then up, and at the height of that brush the dancer pushes off the supporting leg. In the air the legs form a shape, and the dancer lands on the leg that was thrown, usually in a soft plié. The push, the throw, and the landing all work together, so the jump looks like one smooth motion rather than separate parts.
Kinds of jeté
- Petit jeté, a small quick jump often used in fast allegro
- Grand jeté, a big leap that can show a full split in the air
- Jeté battu, a jeté with a beat of the legs added
- Jeté entrelacé, a turning, interlacing leap
Tips for beginners
Height comes from a strong brush and a full push through the foot, not from muscling the legs up. Keep your upper body lifted and your arms coordinated with the jump. Always land through the whole foot into a soft plié to protect your knees and ankles, and to be ready for whatever comes next.
Good to know
Frequently Asked Questions
What does jeté mean in ballet?
It means thrown, and it describes a jump where the dancer brushes one leg out and springs off the other, landing on the thrown leg.
What is the difference between a petit jeté and a grand jeté?
A petit jeté is a small, quick jump used in fast footwork, while a grand jeté is a large leap that often shows a full split in the air.
How do you land a jeté safely?
Land through the whole foot into a soft, bent plié to absorb the impact and protect the ankles and knees.