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

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

Their sporty silhouettes made from recycled plastic bottles have a contemporary streetwise feel, and the spring 2027 collection featured a range of fun scarf and polka-dot prints rarely seen in the outdoor-wear universe. — Alex Wynne, Footwear News, 14 Sep. 2026

The Quebec duo’s face-concealing masks, geometrical hats and polka-dot fashion schemes might scream novelty, but its virtuosic, largely instrumental fare is the genuine article. — Bob Gendron, Chicago Tribune, 11 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