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.
For her ceremony, her wedding dress was styled with a lace bolero. Ashlyn Robinette, People.com, 30 June 2025 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 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 14 Jul. 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!