Bossa

/ˈbɑːsə/ noun

Definition

A style of samba music from Brazil with a slower tempo and more sophisticated harmonies, often featuring jazz influences.

Etymology

Portuguese word meaning 'boss' or 'trend,' from Latin 'bossa' (bump, lump). Used to mean 'the thing' or 'style,' then specifically the music movement that started in 1950s Brazil.

Kelly Says

Bossa nova literally means 'new trend' in Portuguese, and when it exploded in the 1950s, it revolutionized music by blending African rhythms with jazz harmonies. That cool, sophisticated sound changed pop music forever!

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