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Lambada Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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lambada

[lรฆmหˆbษ‘หdษ™ ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

dance style

Lambada is a Brazilian partner dance that originated in the Caribbean in the 1980s and became popular worldwide in the late 1980s. It is characterized by its rhythmic movements and vibrant music, often performed to fast-paced songs. The dance emphasizes body movement and is typically danced in pairs, making it a lively and engaging social activity. The lambada is often associated with feelings of joy and sensuality.

Synonyms

brazilian dance, dance, swing.

Examples of usage

  • They danced the lambada at the festival.
  • She learned how to do the lambada during her trip to Brazil.
  • The lambada is a popular choice for wedding dances.
  • He taught his friends the lambada at the beach party.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Cultural Significance

  • This dance originated from the Amazon region of Brazil, particularly influenced by the blend of African and indigenous sounds.
  • The lambada gained international fame in the late 1980s, especially through the song 'Chorando Se Foi' by Kaoma, which brought the dance to global audiences.
  • It represents a fusion of traditional Brazilian dances with modern influences, showcasing Brazil's rich cultural diversity.

Music

  • The rhythm of lambada music includes catchy beats created with instruments like drums, guitars, and flutes.
  • The songs often feature lyrics about love and joy, adding to the dance's lively and romantic feel.
  • Lambada music is characterized by its fast tempo, which encourages spontaneous dancing and excitement.

Dance Style

  • The dance incorporates fluid body movements, hip swings, and a unique close embrace, making it visually captivating.
  • It is often performed in pairs, with partners moving in sync with the music, highlighting connection and intimacy.
  • Lambada is known for its improvisational nature, allowing dancers to express their creativity within the dance's structure.

Pop Culture

  • The dance became a global phenomenon, often featured in movies and music videos, bringing attention to Brazilian culture.
  • In the 1990s, lambada classes and dance festivals emerged worldwide, inviting many to learn this energetic dance.
  • Lambada continues to inspire modern dance forms and fusion genres, maintaining its relevance in contemporary culture.

Origin of 'lambada'

Main points about word origin

  • The term 'lambada' is derived from the Portuguese word meaning 'to hit' or 'to strike', which reflects the dance's energetic movements.
  • It became popularly recognized in the 1980s, influenced by various Brazilian musical styles and rhythms.
  • In the Brazilian context, lambada is also known as 'danรงa da lambada', emphasizing its cultural roots.

The term 'lambada' comes from the Portuguese word 'lambada', which means 'a stroke' or 'a hit'. The dance is said to have roots in traditional Brazilian folk dances, combined with influences from Caribbean styles, particularly those related to the merengue and salsa. The lambada gained international fame in the late 1980s and early 1990s due to its catchy music and visually appealing dance style. One of the most famous songs associated with lambada, 'Lambada (Chorando Se Foi)', performed by the group Kaoma, played a significant role in popularizing the dance across the globe. The lambada is not only a dance but a symbol of the Brazilian culture that embraces rhythm, movement, and passion for life.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #42,765, this word is among the least frequently used in common English. Understanding it can be beneficial for comprehensive language mastery, but it's not essential for most learners.