polka

noun

pol·​ka ˈpōl-kə  ˈpō-kə 

1

: a lively couple dance of Bohemian origin in duple time with a basic pattern of hop-step-close-step

2

: a lively originally Bohemian dance tune in ²/₄ time

polka intransitive verb

Examples of polka in a Sentence

The band played a polka.

Recent Examples on the Web

Keep the polka-dot trend going with a fresh red-and-white manicure. — Afia Asamoah, InStyle, 1 July 2026

As soon as the concept was solidified, French began thinking of different ways to translate the polka-dot print on the cover stars’ outfits into a makeup look. — Annie Blay-Tettey, Allure, 25 June 2026

Colman Domingo looks fly with his polka-dot pocket square leaving Watch What Happens Live with Andy Cohen in New York City on June 8. — Brendan Le, PEOPLE, 11 June 2026

For example, style a red and white Madewell ruffled polka-dot top with blue denim shorts and a pair of strappy red sandals for the Fourth, and then rewear it with red satin pants and white kitten heels for a summer date night. — ABC News, 3 June 2026

Word History

Etymology

Czech, from Polka Polish woman, feminine of Polák Pole

First Known Use

1825, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing polka

• polka dot
• polka-dotted

Kids Definition

polka

noun

pol·​ka ˈpōl-kə 

: a lively dance that originated in Bohemia

polka verb