polka
UK[ˈpɒlkə]US[ˈpoʊlkə]
n
a fast, lively dance of central european origin, performed by couples in a circle
n
the music for the polka dance, typically in 2/4 time
Etymology
the word 'polka' entered english in the mid-19th century from both french and german. it is derived from the czech word 'půlka', meaning "half-step", referring to the dance's characteristic short, lively steps. the dance's name became associated with poland (via the french 'polka' or 'polaque', meaning "polish woman") due to its popularity across central europe, despite its bohemian (czech) origins. the term thus represents a fascinating case of a cultural loanword where the name's geographic association shifted as the dance spread internationally.
Analysis
this word is a loanword adopted as a single, unanalyzable unit in english.
Examples
the wedding guests danced a lively polka.
the band played a familiar polka that got everyone on their feet.
she is learning the steps to the traditional beer barrel polka.