Oberek

Part of speech: noun

Definitions

1. A lively and energetic folk dance from Poland, known for its rapid movements and performed in a circular pattern by groups of dancers
2. Originating in Poland, this spirited dance features quick steps and is typically performed in a circle with enthusiastic participation from dancers
3. A traditional Polish dance characterized by brisk, swirling steps usually done in a group circle

Etymology: The Polish "oberek" is a dance with a name that points back to its own movement: the word is tied to the Polish verb "obracać", meaning "to turn" or "to rotate", which fits the spinning circles its dancers trace. Polish speakers use it for a fast, lively dance performed in couples or groups, and the dance is often seen as a close cousin of the mazurka, with the same brisk tempo and the same playful energy. The word itself came into English as a borrowing directly from Polish, so it carries no Latin or French baggage. Its meaning stayed remarkably faithful to its origin: a word for turning, applied to a dance built around rapid, circling motion.

Synonyms: dance