polka

noun

pol·​ka ˈpōl-kə  ˈpō-kə 

1

: a lively couple dance of Bohemian origin in duple time with a basic pattern of hop-step-close-step

2

: a lively originally Bohemian dance tune in ²/₄ time

polka intransitive verb

Examples of polka in a Sentence

The band played a polka.

Recent Examples on the Web

Expect oompah bands, polka dancing, bratwurst and, of course, plenty of beer, local and international. — Jennifer Day, Chicago Tribune, 24 Sep. 2026

And Wisconsin has plenty of German beers, bratwurst and polka. — Blaise Mesa, jsonline.com, 18 Sep. 2026

Hadid’s curled blonde hair was secured beneath a polka-dot bandana, worn with sporty Side Eye NYC sunglasses. — Anna Cafolla, Vogue, 17 Sep. 2026

The actress accessorized with some polka-dot tights, open-toe heels, and drop earrings. — Hannah Malach, InStyle, 15 Sep. 2026

Word History

Etymology

Czech, from Polka Polish woman, feminine of Polák Pole

First Known Use

1825, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing polka

• polka dot
• polka-dotted

Kids Definition

polka

noun

pol·​ka ˈpōl-kə 

: a lively dance that originated in Bohemia

polka verb