hula

noun

hu·​la ˈhü-lə 

variants or less commonly hula-hula

ˌhü-lə-ˈhü-lə 

: a sinuous Polynesian dance characterized by rhythmic movement of the hips and mimetic gestures with the hands and often accompanied by chants and rhythmic drumming

Did you know?

A sinuous Polynesian dance, the hula combines undulating movement of the hips and mimetic hand gestures. The dance is often accompanied by chants, drumming, and music played on instruments such as the ukulele. Originally a religious dance performed to praise the chiefs, contemporary hulas tell a story or describe a place, and are danced exclusively by women. The costume typically includes a raffia skirt with a lei (garland) around the neck.

Examples of hula in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Meanwhile, an abundance of culinary options (chef Roy Yamaguchi’s two restaurants) and interactive offerings (hula lessons, kayak turtle tours) await on the property’s 22 acres. —Forbes Travel Guide, Forbes.com, 28 Aug. 2025

Here's how to do it: Stand with one leg forward and a hula hoop around your waist. —Health Editorial Team, Health, 28 Aug. 2025

Needless to say, there will be hula dancing and ukulele jamming with free lessons (ukes provided). —Randy McMullen, Mercury News, 7 Aug. 2025

Embrace the culture by learning how to dance the hula, play the ukulele, or make a lei or a Kukui Nut bracelet. —Barbara Schuler, Travel + Leisure, 30 July 2025

Word History

Etymology

Hawaiian

First Known Use

1825, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for hula

• beulah
• chula
• gula
• kula
• ula
• betula
• blastula
• fistula
• radula
• regula
• scrofula
• campanula

Kids Definition

hula

noun

hu·​la ˈhü-lə 

variants or hula-hula

ˌhü-lə-ˈhü-lə

: a Polynesian dance composed of slow rhythmic body movements usually accompanied by chants and drumming

Etymology

from Hawaiian (Indigenous language of Hawaii)