1.Noun.mw-parser-output .defdate{font-size:smaller} A late afternoon or early evening dance, typically with a live orchestra (often referred to as a palm court orchestra) playing light classical music.
"Since the 1970s, gay-oriented tea dances have been popular with the gay community."
2.NounAny late afternoon or early evening dance, especially one similar to nightclub dancing that would usually be held later at night.