habanera

[ hah-buh-nair-uhor, often, -nyair-uh ]

noun

1. a dance of Cuban origin.
2. the music for this dance, having a slow duple meter and a rhythm similar to that of a tango.

habanera

/ ˌhæbəˈnɛərə /

noun

1. a slow Cuban dance in duple time
2. a piece of music composed for or in the rhythm of this dance

Word History and Origins

Origin of habanera¹

1875–80; < Spanish ( danza ) habanera (dance) of Havana

Word History and Origins

Origin of habanera¹

from Spanish danza habanera dance from Havana

Example Sentences

Mr. Smith’s syncopated keyboard style reflected the influence of his early idol, Professor Longhair, who combined boogie-woogie with habanera and rumba rhythms.

From Washington Post

Afro-Cuban rhythms like the habanera have fed into Afro-American music as early as the 19th century.

From Reuters

What Morton called the “Spanish tinge” actually came from Afro-Cuban rhythms like the habanera.

From New York Times

The cool trio section, with habanera rhythms and a muted trumpet, and her use of a modified jazz progression for the main theme, reflects a creative palette that crosses time, region and culture.

From New York Times

Each incorporates chef Edward Reavis’ house-made marinade of habanera and jalapeno peppers, scallions, black pepper, soy sauce, garlic, ginger and honey.

From Washington Times