conga
Part of Speech: noun, verb
Definition:
- noun: a dance of African origin with a rhythm marked by a repeated pattern of three steps followed by a kick, usually performed by a group of people following a leader
- verb: to dance the conga or to play the drums in a conga band
Pronunciations:
- US: /ˈkɑŋɡə/
- UK: /ˈkɒŋɡə/
Origin and Usage:
- The word "conga" comes from the Spanish word "conga" meaning "congo," which refers to the people of the Congo region in Africa. The conga dance and music originated in Cuba in the late 19th century and became popular in the United States in the 1930s.
- The conga dance is often performed at parties and celebrations and is characterized by a line of people following a leader who plays the drums.
Synonyms:
- dance: rumba, salsa, cha-cha, mambo
- verb: drum, beat, play
Related Words:
- bongo
- flong
- gongs
- mongo
- tonga
Example Sentences:
- The party guests formed a conga line and danced around the room.
- The band played a conga rhythm that got everyone on the dance floor.
- He learned how to conga while on vacation in Cuba.
- The drummer congaed all night long.