jota

[ hoh-tuh; Spanish haw-tah ]

noun

, plural jo·tas [hoh, -t, uh, z, haw, -tahs].

1. a Spanish dance in triple meter, performed by a couple and marked by complex rhythms executed with the heels and castanets.
2. the music for this dance.

jota

/ ˈxɔta /

noun

1. a Spanish dance with castanets in fast triple time, usually to a guitar and voice accompaniment

Word History and Origins

Origin of jota¹

1840–50; < Spanish, probably Old Spanish sota dance, derivative of sotar to dance < Latin saltāre

Word History and Origins

Origin of jota¹

Spanish, probably modification of Old Spanish sota, from sotar to dance, from Latin saltāre

Example Sentences

The malaguena is Andalusian, and the jota is Aragonese; but both are popular in Castile.

From Project Gutenberg

She turned from the window to greet Mercedes who came in to bid them come down to the patio to practice the jota.

From Project Gutenberg

It was energetic exercise and they were rather tired when the last notes of the jota ended.

From Project Gutenberg

"And those great giant figures dancing the jota all the time the procession was moving," said Mary Lee.

From Project Gutenberg

She is to wear it to-morrow, and she is teaching me the jota.

From Project Gutenberg