Calypso: meaning, definitions and examples

๐ŸŽถ
Add to dictionary

calypso

 

[ kษ™หˆlษชp.soสŠ ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

music genre

Calypso is a style of Caribbean music that originated in Trinidad and Tobago. It incorporates elements of African and European musical traditions and is characterized by rhythmic and harmonic structure. The lyrics often focus on social and political themes, and the music is typically lively and danceable. Calypso music is closely associated with Carnival celebrations and has gained popularity in various parts of the world.

Synonyms

Caribbean music, Trinidadian music.

Examples of usage

  • She learned to dance the calypso at the festival.
  • The calypso band performed a lively set during the parade.
  • Calypso music played in the background as we enjoyed our meal.
  • We attended a calypso concert last weekend.
Context #2 | Noun

Greek mythology

In Greek mythology, Calypso is a nymph who lives on the island of Ogygia. She is known for her beauty and her role in the story of Odysseus, whom she detained for several years. According to the myth, Calypso falls in love with Odysseus and offers him immortality if he stays with her. However, he ultimately chooses to return to his wife, Penelope.

Synonyms

mythological figure, nymph.

Examples of usage

  • Calypso's character in the Odyssey is intriguing.
  • The tales of Calypso reflect themes of desire and freedom.
  • In art, Calypso is often portrayed as a beautiful woman.
  • The story of Calypso adds depth to the overall narrative of the Odyssey.

Translations

Translations of the word "calypso" in other languages:

๐Ÿ‡ต๐Ÿ‡น calipso

๐Ÿ‡ฎ๐Ÿ‡ณ เค•เคพเคฒเคฟเคชเฅเคธเฅ‹

๐Ÿ‡ฉ๐Ÿ‡ช Kalypso

๐Ÿ‡ฎ๐Ÿ‡ฉ kalipso

๐Ÿ‡บ๐Ÿ‡ฆ ะบะฐะปั–ะฟัะพ

๐Ÿ‡ต๐Ÿ‡ฑ kalipso

๐Ÿ‡ฏ๐Ÿ‡ต ใ‚ซใƒชใƒ—ใ‚ฝ

๐Ÿ‡ซ๐Ÿ‡ท calypso

๐Ÿ‡ช๐Ÿ‡ธ calipso

๐Ÿ‡น๐Ÿ‡ท kalipso

๐Ÿ‡ฐ๐Ÿ‡ท ์นผ๋ฆฝ์†Œ

๐Ÿ‡ธ๐Ÿ‡ฆ ูƒุงู„ูŠุจุณูˆ

๐Ÿ‡จ๐Ÿ‡ฟ kalypso

๐Ÿ‡ธ๐Ÿ‡ฐ kalypso

๐Ÿ‡จ๐Ÿ‡ณ ๅกๅˆฉๆ™ฎ็ดข

๐Ÿ‡ธ๐Ÿ‡ฎ kalipso

๐Ÿ‡ฎ๐Ÿ‡ธ kalypso

๐Ÿ‡ฐ๐Ÿ‡ฟ ะบะฐะปะธะฟัะพ

๐Ÿ‡ฌ๐Ÿ‡ช แƒ™แƒแƒšแƒ˜แƒคแƒกแƒ

๐Ÿ‡ฆ๐Ÿ‡ฟ kalipso

๐Ÿ‡ฒ๐Ÿ‡ฝ calipso

Etymology

The word 'calypso' in its musical context is believed to have originated in the early 20th century in Trinidad and Tobago, evolving from the African slaves' musical traditions. The term itself is thought to stem from the French word 'calypso,' or possibly from the Spanish 'calypso,' derived from the African words that denote the style of song and dance typical of their cultural heritage. The blend of African rhythms with European instruments created a unique sound that defined calypso music. It became a prominent form of expression during Carnival and was used by artists to comment on social and political issues of the time. In Greek mythology, the name 'Calypso' has earlier roots, derived from the Greek word 'kalyptein,' meaning 'to cover' or 'to conceal.' This etymology reflects her story as a keeper of secrets and the beauty of her character as one who kept Odysseus hidden from the world.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #33,863 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.