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DictionaryrumbaCuban dance
noun / verb

rumba

RUM-buh/ˈrʌmbə/

A Cuban dance with a characteristic rhythmic accompaniment.

The pair dances the rumba beside a drummer and a clave player.

An Afro-Cuban rumba pair dancing energetically in an open, separated stance beside a conga drummer and a clave player; bent knees, grounded footwork and responsive body gestures distinguish the scene from ballroom dancing.
Etymology
rumbaCuban Spanishspree, carousal

Cuban Spanish rumba originally meant a “spree” or “carousal.” The name came to denote the Afro-Cuban dance, as well as its rhythm and accompanying music.

In context

History Of Latin Cultures0:11
Let's talk about Cuban Rumba, a fascinating music and dance style that has deep roots in the island's culture. Cuban rumba originated in Cuba during the late 19th century
What Is Cuban Rumba? - History Of Latin Cultures

More examples

  • Our instructor teaches us the steps of a Cuban rumba.
  • We rumba to the beat of the drums.
  • The musicians play rumba while the dancers take a break.

Forms

rumba · rumbas · rumbaed · rumbaing

Similar words

dance
A broader term that does not specify this Cuban style.