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Mambo Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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mambo

[หˆmษ‘หmboสŠ ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

dance style

Mambo is a lively dance form that originated in Cuba during the late 1930s. It is characterized by its quick tempo and rhythmic footwork, which reflects African and Caribbean influences. The mambo dance gained popularity in the United States in the 1940s and 1950s, especially in New York City's Latin dance clubs. This energetic style is often performed to mambo music, which features strong beats and syncopated rhythms. Mambo continues to be a popular dance form in ballroom and social dance communities.

Synonyms

cha-cha, rumba, salsa.

Examples of usage

  • She loves dancing the mambo at parties.
  • The mambo originated in Cuba.
  • He took mambo lessons to improve his dance skills.
  • They performed a stunning mambo routine.
Context #2 | Noun

music genre

Mambo music is a genre that evolved from the Afro-Cuban jazz movement in the 1940s. It incorporates elements of jazz and traditional Cuban rhythms, making it distinct yet accessible for various audiences. Known for its dynamic brass instrumentation and driving percussion, mambo music often features vibrant melodies that invite listeners to dance. The genre reached its peak popularity in America during the mid-20th century, influencing many modern Latin music styles. Mambo music continues to be celebrated in dance clubs and Latin music festivals today.

Synonyms

Afro-Cuban jazz, rumba music, salsa music.

Examples of usage

  • The mambo band played all night long.
  • She loves listening to classic mambo songs.
  • The mambo music made everyone get up and dance.
  • He introduced me to the great mambo musicians.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Cultural Significance

  • In the 1950s, mambo became popular in the United States, particularly in dance halls and clubs, influencing jazz music and other dance genres.
  • Mambo was featured prominently in films, such as 'Dirty Dancing: Havana Nights', showcasing its vibrant dance style.

Dance Evolution

  • Mambo is characterized by its fast-paced rhythm and playful movements, often incorporating complex footwork.
  • It laid the groundwork for other popular Latin dances, such as salsa, blending various styles and rhythms.

Music

  • The musical style of mambo combines jazz and Cuban rhythms, making it a unique and energetic genre.
  • Mambo bands often use brass instruments, piano, and numerous percussion instruments to create lively sounds.

Psychology of Movement

  • Dancing the mambo can boost mood and reduce stress, as movement releases endorphins that create feelings of happiness.
  • Engaging in dance can help with social bonding, as it encourages people to connect and communicate through movement.

Origin of 'mambo'

Main points about word origin

  • The term 'mambo' comes from the Haitian Creole word meaning 'conversation with the spirits', reflecting its cultural roots.
  • It was popularized in the 1940s by the Cuban musician Pรฉrez Prado, who is often called the 'King of Mambo'.

The term 'mambo' originates from the Kikongo word 'n'kambo,' which means 'conversation' or 'dialogue.' This is emblematic of the dance's lively interaction between partners. The Cuban mambo developed in the 1930s, predominantly in Havana, where Afro-Cuban rhythms and jazz began to merge, leading to its vibrant sound and style. The genre was popularized in the 1940s and 1950s by musicians like Pรฉrez Prado, who is often referred to as the 'King of Mambo.' His contributions played a significant role in bringing mambo to a wider audience, particularly in the United States. As the dance and music style evolved, it incorporated elements from different genres, including jazz and swing, further enriching its appeal. Today, the mambo is regarded as a vital part of Latin music and dance heritage, celebrated in various cultural festivals worldwide.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #37,601, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.