cha-cha

[ chah-chah ]

noun

, plural cha-chas.

1. a fast ballroom dance of Latin American origin, similar to the mambo, that follows a rhythmic pattern based upon a quick three-step movement.

verb (used without object)

, cha-chaed, cha-cha·ing.

1. to dance the cha-cha.

Word History and Origins

Origin of cha-cha¹

First recorded in 1950–55; from Latin American Spanish (Cuban) cha-cha-cha, probably imitative of the musical accompaniment

Example Sentences

In October, Spears was eliminated from the ABC reality program “Dancing With the Stars” after she and her dance partner scored a 16 out of 30 on their cha-cha routine.

From Los Angeles Times

He began improvising on the dance floor at an early age, with cha-cha and the samba, at family gatherings.

From Los Angeles Times

"I think that he'll land on his feet because if he learns to cha-cha he can go to 'Dancing With the Stars,'" Behar quipped, earning a few laughs from the audience.

From Salon

Many were first-generation Asian Americans, drawn to the artistry of the tango, fox trot and cha-cha after having spent most of their lives working and raising children.

From New York Times

She had taken a cha-cha class at Star 15 years ago and never stopped dancing.

From Los Angeles Times