bolero

noun

bo·​le·​ro bə-ˈler-(ˌ)ō 

-ˈle-rō

plural boleros

1

: a Spanish dance characterized by sharp turns, stamping of the feet, and sudden pauses in a position with one arm arched over the head

also : music in ³/₄ time for a bolero

2

: a loose waist-length jacket open at the front

Examples of bolero in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Uchis, 31, is equally adept and authoritative whether performing reggaeton or boleros, cumbia or reggae, hip-hop or dance-pop, R&B or electronica. —George Varga, San Diego Union-Tribune, 21 Aug. 2025

Elsewhere, música Mexicana newcomer Armenta delivered his debut studio album Pórtate Bien, home to 15 tracks that navigate from indie rock to corridos tumbrados to reggatón Mexa to heartfelt boleros. —Jessica Roiz, Billboard, 8 Aug. 2025

Traditional boleros are recorded in a very organic, natural way. —Vita Dadoo, Rolling Stone, 31 July 2025

She is best known for her robust vocals and distinct blend of cumbia, bolero, folk and alternative styles. —Thania Garcia, Variety, 28 July 2025

Word History

Etymology

Spanish

First Known Use

1787, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for bolero

• bracero
• estero
• herero
• montero
• potrero
• primero
• prospero
• romero
• sombrero
• vaquero
• wheelbarrow
• aero

Kids Definition

bolero

noun

bo·​le·​ro bə-ˈle(ə)r-ō 

plural boleros

1

: a Spanish dance in ¾ time

2

: a waist-length jacket open at the front