samba

noun

sam·​ba ˈsam-bə  ˈsäm- 

: a Brazilian dance of African origin with a basic pattern of step-close-step-close and characterized by a dip and spring upward at each beat of the music

also : the music for this dance

samba intransitive verb

Examples of samba in a Sentence

The band played a samba.

Recent Examples on the Web

The seamless integration of true samba and more Super Bowl Halftime Show–worthy choreography is pretty incredible. — Maggie Fremont, Vulture, 14 Oct. 2026

The three-day celebration began on Thursday, October 8, with a welcome party featuring a performance by the samba school Unidos de Vila Isabel. — Alexandra MacOn, Vogue, 12 Oct. 2026

Martin even showed off some fun footwork of his own to the vibrant beat of the song, which blends the sounds of pop, funk, samba, reggaeton, mambo and salsa. — Ashley Iasimone, Billboard, 27 Sep. 2026

Latin Grammy nominee performs his swinging samba-funk colored with Brazilian soul. — Patrick Connolly, The Orlando Sentinel, 31 Aug. 2026

Word History

Etymology

Portuguese

First Known Use

1885, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for samba

• bomba
• mamba