flamenco
UK[fləˈmeŋkəʊ]US[flɑːˈmeŋkoʊ]
n
a passionate spanish style of music, song, and dance, originally from andalusia, characterized by complex rhythms and guitar accompaniment.
n
the traditional guitar music played to accompany this dance.
Etymology
the word 'flamenco' entered english directly from spanish in the late 19th century. its origin in spanish is debated, with one prominent theory suggesting it derives from the spanish word for 'fleming' or 'flemish' ('flamenco'), possibly used as a slang term meaning 'flamboyant' or 'showy', which was then applied to the gypsy performers of andalusia. another theory links it to the latin word 'flamma', meaning 'flame', metaphorically describing the passionate, fiery nature of the art form. regardless of its precise linguistic path, the term was fully lexicalized in spanish before being borrowed into english to denote this specific and vibrant cultural performance.
Analysis
the word 'flamenco' is a direct loanword from spanish. it is not productively formed from smaller, meaningful english morphemes and therefore is not segmentable in the context of modern english word formation.
Examples
the rhythmic clapping and guitar playing are essential elements of a traditional flamenco performance.
she has been studying flamenco dance for over five years.
the cafe featured a live flamenco band that captivated the entire audience.