How Do You Spell KWELA?

Pronunciation: [kwˈɛlə] (IPA)

The spelling of the word "kwela" is derived from the Zulu language, where it means "get up" or "climb". In IPA phonetic transcription, the word is spelled as /ˈkweɪlə/. The first syllable is pronounced as "kway", with a long "a" sound, followed by the second syllable pronounced as "luh". The phonetic transcription accurately represents the sound of the word, with the emphasis on the first syllable and a slight vowel sound on the last syllable.

KWELA Meaning and Definition

1. Kwela is a noun that refers to a genre of popular music originating from South Africa, particularly associated with the urban townships of Johannesburg during the mid-20th century. It encompasses a lively and upbeat style characterized by the use of various instruments such as pennywhistle, guitar, and tambourine. Kwela is known for its distinctive melody, often featuring simple, repetitive tunes that encourage dancing and audience participation.

   The term "kwela" also denotes the dance associated with this music style. The dance is characterized by quick, rhythmic footwork accompanied by hand clapping and body movement. It involves energetic and joyful steps that reflect the vibrancy and lightheartedness of the kwela music itself.

   Furthermore, "kwela" can also be used colloquially to describe a person who possesses a carefree and fun-loving attitude. It implies someone who exudes positivity and spontaneity, often with a mischievous or playful streak. The term is sometimes used as a compliment to describe individuals who bring a sense of cheerfulness and light-heartedness to others.

   In summary, kwela refers to both a music genre and accompanying dance style originating from South Africa. Additionally, it is used figuratively to describe someone with an exuberant and carefree nature. The term encapsulates the vibrant cultural heritage of South Africa and the joyous spirit that kwela music embodies.

Common Misspellings for KWELA

• jwela
• mwela
• lwela
• owela
• iwela
• kqela
• kaela
• ksela
• keela
• k3ela
• k2ela
• kwwla
• kwsla
• kwdla
• kwrla
• kw4la
• kw3la
• kweka
• kwepa

Etymology of KWELA

The word "kwela" derives from the Zulu language, which is primarily spoken in South Africa. In Zulu, "kwela" means "to climb" or "to rise". The term was originally used to describe a style of music that emerged in the 1950s and 1960s in the townships of Johannesburg, South Africa. Kwela music is characterized by its joyful, melodious, and lively sound, featuring a pennywhistle as the main instrument. As the popularity of this music genre grew, the term "kwela" became synonymous with the musical style itself.

Similar spelling word for KWELA

• kwell.

Plural form of KWELA is KWELAS