polka

noun

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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Kids Fun Zone, games, polka music, dancing and fun for the whole family. Grace Tucker, Cincinnati Enquirer, 3 Sep. 2025 Expect plenty of games, polka music, dancing and fun for the whole family. Caroline Ritzie, The Enquirer, 3 Sep. 2025 The pairing was seen on Drew Barrymore, who decided to add a touch of color with a red polka-dot blouse which looked effortlessly glamorous when combined with red lipstick and beachy blonde waves. Michel Mejía, Glamour, 1 Sep. 2025 Burns, 21, opted for a brown and white polka-dot silk maxi dress with a train that trailed behind her on the carpet. Madison E. Goldberg, People.com, 29 Aug. 2025 See All Example Sentences for polka

Word History

Etymology

Czech, from Polka Polish woman, feminine of Polák Pole

First Known Use

1825, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of polka was in 1825

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Polka.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/polka. Accessed 10 Sep. 2025.

Kids Definition

polka

noun
pol·​ka ˈpōl-kə How to pronounce polka (audio)
: a lively dance that originated in Bohemia
polka verb

More from Merriam-Webster on polka

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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