samba

[ˈsɑ̃bə (English) / ˈsɐ̃bɐ (Portuguese)]

nounfemininepl: sambas

samba

1. A lively Brazilian dance with African and Portuguese influences, characterized by syncopated rhythms and hip movements

She danced the samba at the Rio Carnival with incredible energy.

Ela dançou a samba no Carnaval do Rio com energia incrível.

2. A style of Brazilian music associated with this dance, typically in 2/4 time with distinctive percussion

The samba music filled the streets during the festival.

A música de samba preencheu as ruas durante a festa.

3. A musical composition or song in samba style

He composed a beautiful samba for the school's presentation.

Ele compôs uma samba linda para a apresentação da escola.

Synonyms

Regional Variations

General Brazilian

samba

Most common usage; refers to both dance and music genre

Rio de Janeiro

samba

Birthplace of samba; deeply embedded in Carnival traditions

Bahia

samba

Strong connection to African cultural roots; various regional styles

Portugal

samba

Used as borrowed word; less culturally prominent than in Brazil

entrar no ritmo da samba (to join in the samba rhythm; to go with the flow)

escola de samba (samba school; a community organization that prepares for Carnival)

samba no pé (literally 'samba in the foot'; natural ability to samba dance)

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