1 tala | Definition of tala

tala

noun (1)
ta·​la | \ ˈtä-lə How to pronounce tala (audio) \

Definition of tala

 (Entry 1 of 2)

: one of the ancient traditional rhythmic patterns of South Asian music — compare raga

tala

noun (2)
ta·​la | \ ˈtä-lə How to pronounce tala (audio) , -(ˌ)lä\
plural tala or talas

Definition of tala (Entry 2 of 2)

the basic monetary unit of Samoa — see Money Table

First Known Use of tala

Noun (1)

1891, in the meaning defined above

Noun (2)

1967, in the meaning defined above

History and Etymology for tala

Noun (1)

Sanskrit tāla, literally, hand-clapping

Noun (2)

Samoan, from English dollar

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More from Merriam-Webster on tala

Rhyming Dictionary: Words that rhyme with tala

Spanish Central: Translation of tala

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about tala