1 flamenco | Definition of flamenco

flamenco

noun
fla·​men·​co | \ flə-ˈmeŋ-(ˌ)kō How to pronounce flamenco (audio) \
plural flamencos

Definition of flamenco

1 : a vigorous rhythmic dance style of the Andalusian Gypsies also : a dance in flamenco style
2 : music or song suitable to accompany a flamenco dance

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Did You Know?

The Spanish word flamenco means “Flemish,” and its later usage in the sense “Gypsy-like,” especially in reference to a song, dance, and guitar-music style, has inspired a number of hypotheses about why the word flamenco came to be associated with Gypsies; however, all of these theories seem implausible. Perhaps more promisingly, in the later 19th century flamenco also meant “jaunty, cocky” and, in reference to women, “provocatively attractive,” The suggestion has been made that “Gypsylike” is a secondary development from these senses. The ordinary Spanish word for “Gypsy” is gitano, which like the English Gypsy, is altered from a word meaning “Egyptian.”

Examples of flamenco in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Her music infuses decidedly modern pop (and its requisite nods to hip-hop and R&B) with flamenco, the Andalusian music tradition that dates to the 18th century in its earliest forms. Bethonie Butler, Washington Post, "How Rosalía brought flamenco to the VMAs — and into the genre-bending world of modern pop," 27 Aug. 2019 Grace is also a mezzo-soprano singer, can dance a ton of styles including flamenco and waltz and has an ear for accents, including Spanish, Irish and American ones. Jasmine Gomez, Seventeen, "Everything You Need to Know About "13 Reasons Why"'s Newest Character Ani Achola," 27 Aug. 2019 Born Rosalía Vila Tobella in Sant Esteve Sesrovires, Barcelona, the musician's signature sound is a contemporary fusion of flamenco, pop, hip-hop, R&B, and a number of other sonic influences. Erica Gonzales, Harper's BAZAAR, "Meet Rosalía, the VMA Performer and Nominee with a Fresh Twist on Flamenco Music," 26 Aug. 2019 The group also celebrates local culture by teaching traditional Mexican dancing, known as folklorico, as well as Spanish flamenco dancing and guitar. Kathleen Toner, CNN, "Professional dancer opens arts center for kids living in the heart of America's opioid epidemic," 15 Aug. 2019 Once open, Cafe Sevilla will feature flamenco and tango dancers, as well as a dance space for guests. Daily Pilot, "Biz News: Changes ahead for Costa Mesa’s South Coast Collection," 7 Aug. 2019 During the latter, learn about the local economy and social systems including Fado — the traditional form of Portuguese singing, participate in an interactive tile workshop at a tile factory tour plus learn about the art and evolution of flamenco. Elizabeth Marie Himchak, Pomerado News, "Chamber to offer three overseas trips in 2020," 3 Aug. 2019 Lorca’s work and the spirit of flamenco are deeply intertwined, says Pascual. Zoë Madonna, BostonGlobe.com, "Fiery flamenco as intense as the story ‘Yerma’ tells," 26 June 2019 Buika’s voice, which carries the taut, intricate arabesques and throat-tearing passion of flamenco toward rock peaks, is every bit its equal. Jon Pareles, New York Times, "On ‘Africa Speaks,’ Santana Finds a Worthy Partner in Buika," 25 June 2019

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'flamenco.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

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First Known Use of flamenco

1896, in the meaning defined at sense 1

History and Etymology for flamenco

Spanish, from flamenco of the Gypsies, literally, Flemish, from Middle Dutch Vlaminc Fleming

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More Definitions for flamenco

flamenco

noun

English Language Learners Definition of flamenco

: a fast and lively Spanish dance also : music that is played for this type of dance

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More from Merriam-Webster on flamenco

Spanish Central: Translation of flamenco

Britannica English: Translation of flamenco for Arabic Speakers

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about flamenco