cha-cha

American  

[chah-chah] / ˈtʃɑˌtʃɑ /

Also cha-cha-cha

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.

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verb (used without object)

cha-chaed, cha-chaing

1. to dance the cha-cha.

Etymology

Origin of cha-cha

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

Example Sentences

After his instant dance performance, a cha-cha to DNCE’s “Cake by the Ocean,” he acknowledged the toll the competition had taken.

From Los Angeles Times • Nov. 26, 2025

Judge Craig Revel Horwood praised their cha-cha to 100 Degrees by Kylie and Dannii Minogue, saying it was "absolutely fierce, serving realness, serving fab-u-lous".

From BBC • Dec. 25, 2024

"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 • Apr. 25, 2023

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 • Feb. 24, 2023

Then I turn on the drum and cha-cha beats, and I move into a jazzy, funky piece that I’ve been working on.

From "Blended" by Sharon M. Draper