fandango

[ fan-dang-goh ]

noun

, plural fan·dan·gos.

1. a lively Spanish or Spanish American dance in triple time, performed by a man and woman playing castanets.
2. a piece of music for such a dance or one having its rhythm.
3. (especially in the southwest U.S.) a ball or dance.

fandango

/ fænˈdæŋɡəʊ /

noun

1. an old Spanish courtship dance in triple time between a couple who dance closely and provocatively
2. a piece of music composed for or in the rhythm of this dance

Word History and Origins

Origin of fandango¹

First recorded in 1765–70; < Spanish, of uncertain origin, perhaps from Portuguese fadango (unattested), from fado fado ( def )

Word History and Origins

Origin of fandango¹

C18: from Spanish, of uncertain origin

Example Sentences

He ceased to find pleasure in his nets and boar spears, in the fandango and the bullfight.

From Project Gutenberg

She had heard the Methodists were having a fandango down in the valley.

From Project Gutenberg

Here a spirited fandango was going on, and they stood for some time watching the movements of the performers.

From Project Gutenberg

Tilted pensively against the piano, a guitar—guitar capable of playing the Spanish Fandango by itself, if you give it a start.

From Project Gutenberg

Four skillful, or if not skillful at least indefatigable guitar-players played a fandango.

From Project Gutenberg