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bossa nova

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noun bos·sa no·va \ˌbä-sə-ˈnō-və\

Definition of bossa nova

  1. 1 :  popular music of Brazilian origin that is rhythmically related to the samba but with complex harmonies and improvised jazzlike passages

  2. 2 :  a dance performed to bossa nova music

See bossa nova defined for English-language learners

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Origin and Etymology of bossa nova

Portuguese, literally, new trend


First Known Use: 1962

BOSSA NOVA Defined for English Language Learners

bossa nova

play
noun

Definition of bossa nova for English Language Learners

  • : a kind of music that is originally from Brazil

  • : a dance performed to bossa nova music

Learn More about bossa nova

  1. See words that rhyme with bossa nova Britannica English: Translation of bossa nova for Arabic speakers Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about bossa nova

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