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

Moments later, the duo was back in all of its fantastic polka-dot glory, complete with those oversized masks, and doing some quick stretching/calisthenics to get ready for the show. — Jim Harrington, Mercury News, 20 Aug. 2026

Attendees wore polka-dot outfits, a few hats with hot-dog noses, and their ages ranged from toddler to retiree. — Josh Martin, Rolling Stone, 19 Aug. 2026

The two-piece swimsuit bore a striking resemblance to a bikini with a larger polka-dot pattern that Simpson wore for her birthday celebration. — Chanel Vargas, InStyle, 16 Aug. 2026

Keep scrolling for five new ways to wear the polka-dot trend in fall 2026. — Ángela Belda, Glamour, 14 Aug. 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