bachata

American  

[bah-chah-tah] / bɑˈtʃɑ tɑ /

noun

1. a contemporary genre of Latin American popular music, in the style of a ballad, featuring guitars, percussion, and singing.

   On Thursdays, they have a band that plays nothing but bachata.

2. a song performed in the musical style of bachata.

   The lyrics to this bachata are from a traditional hymn.

3. a partnered dance of Dominican origin, performed to the music of bachata, traditionally danced in eight-count box steps with a sequence of three steps and a tap, with modern variations that include steps from other Latin ballroom dances.

   Part of the ballroom competition is a six-minute bachata.

---

Etymology

Origin of bachata

First recorded in 1955–60; from Caribbean Spanish; origin uncertain

Example Sentences

After traveling to the Dominican Republic to record for nearly three decades, De Menil says he wanted to create something that would ensure that the next generation continues the traditions of bachata.

From Los Angeles Times

To your point about movement, there’s so much of it here: bachata, cumbia, electronic music … so much to dance to.

From Los Angeles Times

Niche genres like salsa, bachata, rock and electronica stayed relevant by basking in the beauty of their roots.

From Los Angeles Times

It’s very hard for me to be like, “Hey, I’m just going to make bachata.”

From Los Angeles Times

This tension plays out in the storyline of Frendy, a magnetic student of Haitian descent who uses bachata to fit in.

From Los Angeles Times