hula

noun

hu·​la ˈhü-lə How to pronounce hula (audio)
variants or less commonly hula-hula
: 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
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.
The vibe: Guests can look forward to events like Aloha Fridays, complete with hula performances during the summer. Madalyn Mendoza, Axios, 14 Mar. 2025 She was greeted by her daughter, who ran out in a hula skirt and hugged her. Skyler Caruso, People.com, 26 Dec. 2024 But this planet follows a unique trajectory—looping over the top and bottom of the star pair, more like a hula hoop being spun vertically rather than flat. Thomas G. Moukawsher, MSNBC Newsweek, 17 Apr. 2025 Her hobbies of hula dancing and spearfishing showcase her connection to her culture. Kristen Moon, Forbes, 27 Feb. 2025 See All Example Sentences for hula

Word History

Etymology

Hawaiian

First Known Use

1825, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of hula was in 1825

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Hula.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/hula. Accessed 23 May. 2025.

Kids Definition

hula

noun
hu·​la ˈhü-lə How to pronounce hula (audio)
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)

More from Merriam-Webster on hula

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!