The word "bolero" is spelled with four letters - b, o, l, and e - and is pronounced /bəˈlɛroʊ/ according to the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA). The first syllable is pronounced with a short "u" sound and the second syllable has a long "e" sound. The "r" at the end is not silent, and is pronounced with a slight roll of the tongue. "Bolero" is a type of dance that originated in Spain, and is also a musical genre characterized by a slow tempo and strong beat.
Bolero is a noun that refers to a type of Spanish dance that originated in the late 18th century. It is characterized by its lively rhythm and passionate movements. The word "bolero" comes from the Spanish word "bola," which means ball or sphere, and it describes the spinning movements and circular patterns often seen in this dance style.
In addition to the dance, bolero is also a genre of music associated with this particular form of dance. It is a style of romantic and sentimental music that emerged in Cuba in the late 19th century. The bolero music typically features a distinctive melody and lyrics that express emotions of love, longing, and heartbreak. The primary instruments used in bolero music are the guitar, piano, and percussion.
Furthermore, "bolero" can also refer to a type of jacket or outerwear. It is a short, waist-length garment, typically made of lightweight fabrics such as lace, silk, or satin. Boleros are often worn as a fashionable accessory to formal dresses or evening gowns, as they add an elegant and sophisticated touch to the overall attire.
Overall, "bolero" can be defined as a Spanish dance characterized by its lively rhythm and passionate movements, a genre of music associated with this dance style, and a type of short, waist-length jacket worn as an accessory to formal attire.
A Spanish dance.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "bolero" has an etymology that traces back to Spanish. It is derived from "bóléro", which is the Spanish diminutive form of "bola", meaning "ball". The origins of "bolero" can be found in the dance and music style that emerged in Spain during the late 18th century. The dance form was known for its graceful and elegant movements, often accompanied by castanets. Over time, "bolero" spread to other parts of Europe and Latin America, where it gained popularity and adopted local variations. Today, the term "bolero" can refer to both the original Spanish dance and a genre of music characterized by its slow tempo and romantic melodies.