salsa

noun

sal·​sa ˈsȯl-sə 

ˈsäl-

1

: a usually spicy sauce of chopped tomatoes, onions, and peppers that is commonly served with Mexican food

also : a similar sauce made with a main ingredient other than tomatoes

peach salsa

2

: popular music of Latin American origin that has absorbed characteristics of rhythm and blues, jazz, and rock

Examples of salsa in a Sentence

The band was playing salsa.

We're taking classes in salsa.

Recent Examples on the Web

Jalapeño aren’t just good for perking up wine…and recipes like salsa, guacamole, and chili, though. —Karla Walsh, Better Homes & Gardens, 26 June 2025

It's often found in smoothies, popsicles, baked goods, salsas, beverages, and more. —Brittany Lubeck, Verywell Health, 24 June 2025

While many cities offer Friday-night dances (salsa, country swing, and Lindy hop are among the most popular), some towns host slightly more woo-woo offerings for the solstice. —Corey Buhay, Outside Online, 19 June 2025

The salsa on the vampiro did have a nice spicy kick that tickles the lip and tongue. —Carlos Rico, San Diego Union-Tribune, 11 June 2025

Word History

Etymology

Spanish, literally, sauce, from Latin, feminine of salsus salted — more at sauce

First Known Use

circa 1962, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for salsa

• balsa
• khalsa

Kids Definition

salsa

noun

sal·​sa ˈsȯl-sə 

ˈsäl-

1

: a spicy sauce of tomatoes, onions, and hot peppers

2

: popular Latin American music with elements of rhythm and blues, jazz, and rock