salsa

noun

sal·​sa ˈsȯl-sə 

ˈsäl-

1

: a usually spicy sauce of chopped tomatoes, onions, and peppers that is commonly served with Mexican food

also : a similar sauce made with a main ingredient other than tomatoes

peach salsa

2

: popular music of Latin American origin that has absorbed characteristics of rhythm and blues, jazz, and rock

Examples of salsa in a Sentence

The band was playing salsa.

We're taking classes in salsa.

Recent Examples on the Web

This includes salsa dancing on Friday night and live music Saturday and Sunday. —Abby Hamblin, San Diego Union-Tribune, 16 June 2026

From German dudes discovering Waffle House in the Deep South to Japanese fans experiencing chips and salsa overload in Texas, it's been absolutely beautiful seeing the guests of this great nation being exposed to the best parts of our culture stateside. —Austin Perry Outkick, FOXNews.com, 15 June 2026

Diced watermelon, bell pepper, and cucumber get tossed with fresh mint, sherry vinegar, and Aleppo pepper flakes for a salsa-like combo that’s equal parts sweet and spicy. —Maggie Meyer Glisan, Better Homes & Gardens, 14 June 2026

Stop here for a plate of chilaquiles in salsa while exploring the historic center, or grab a club sandwich for a satisfying brunch. —Daria Bachmann, Travel + Leisure, 14 June 2026

Word History

Etymology

Spanish, literally, sauce, from Latin, feminine of salsus salted — more at sauce

First Known Use

circa 1962, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing salsa

• salsa verde

Rhymes for salsa

• balsa
• khalsa

Kids Definition

salsa

noun

sal·​sa ˈsȯl-sə 

ˈsäl-

1

: a spicy sauce of tomatoes, onions, and hot peppers

2

: popular Latin American music with elements of rhythm and blues, jazz, and rock