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

Cardi appeared to shoot the clip either at home or an office of sorts, and in the visual, she is draped in a polka-dot dress, hugging her curves and pregnant belly. —Michael Saponara, Billboard, 20 Oct. 2025

This darling mug from Kate Spade is made of durable stoneware, has a 14-ounce capacity, and a classic polka-dot design that adds a whimsical touch to your drinkware collection. —Alicia Geigel, Southern Living, 8 Oct. 2025

There were free pouches of pocket pancakes; Brewers manager Pat Murphy showing off his pancake-flipping skills; special guests, including Donald Driver; polka music; pancake artists; a T-shirt giveaway for the first 3,000 fans; and the debut of Murph's Maple Syrup. —Hannah Kirby, jsonline.com, 1 Oct. 2025

Start with classic white or lean into current trends with a polka-dot top. —Jake Henry Smith, Glamour, 30 Sep. 2025

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