bolero

noun

bo·​le·​ro bə-ˈler-(ˌ)ō How to pronounce bolero (audio)
-ˈle-rō
plural boleros
1
: a Spanish dance characterized by sharp turns, stamping of the feet, and sudden pauses in a position with one arm arched over the head
also : music in ³/₄ time for a bolero
2
: a loose waist-length jacket open at the front

Examples of bolero in a Sentence

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.
There are also a few interludes and bits of new music she’s written for different parts of the show, including a flamenco-style arrangement and a piece of a bolero. Julyssa Lopez, Rolling Stone, 12 May 2025 Monica Barbaro Monica Barbaro tips her bolero in a white coat, black gloves and a tulle skirt, all Dior, with Bulgari jewelry. Brendan Le, People.com, 6 May 2025 The goal with the bolero set was to have something that looks super fashionable and cute, but can also allow a full range of motion. Outside Online, 17 May 2025 The boy in the chartreuse bolero approaches and Magenta lifts the rope. Amy Virshup, Vulture, 14 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for bolero

Word History

Etymology

Spanish

First Known Use

1787, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of bolero was in 1787

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Bolero.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/bolero. Accessed 30 Jun. 2025.

Kids Definition

bolero

noun
bo·​le·​ro bə-ˈle(ə)r-ō How to pronounce bolero (audio)
plural boleros
1
: a Spanish dance in ¾ time
2
: a waist-length jacket open at the front

More from Merriam-Webster on bolero

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!