舞会 (wǔhuì) literally combines 舞 (wǔ), meaning 'dance' or 'to dance', and 会 (huì), meaning 'gathering' or 'meeting'. Together, they form a compound noun meaning 'dance party' — a social event where people gather specifically to dance, often with music, formal or semi-formal attire, and sometimes a theme. It’s commonly used for school events (e.g., proms), charity galas, holiday celebrations like New Year’s Eve, or cultural festivals.

Unlike casual dancing at a club or bar, a 舞会 implies intentionality and structure: there’s usually an organizer, scheduled time, venue, and often an entrance fee or invitation. The term carries a slightly elegant or traditional connotation — it’s not used for impromptu dancing in a living room or street performance. While modern usage includes Western-style parties, it can also refer to traditional Chinese dance gatherings, especially in historical or literary contexts.