bossa nova

[ bos-uh noh-vuh, baw-suh ]

noun

1. jazz-influenced music of Brazilian origin, rhythmically related to the samba.
2. a dance performed to this music.

bossa nova

/ ˈbɒsə ˈnəʊvə /

noun

1. a dance similar to the samba, originating in Brazil
2. a piece of music composed for or in the rhythm of this dance

Word History and Origins

Origin of bossa nova¹

1960–65; < Portuguese: literally, new tendency, leaning

Word History and Origins

Origin of bossa nova¹

C20: Portuguese, literally: new voice

Example Sentences

“Hello Muddah, Hello Fadduh, Here I Am at Camp Granada…” and “Blame It on the Bossa Nova” by Eydie Gorme.

From The Daily Beast