bossa nova

bossa nova [bos-uh noh-vuh, baw-suh] Word Origin noun

1. jazz-influenced music of Brazilian origin, rhythmically related to the samba.
2. a dance performed to this music.

Origin of bossa nova 1960–65; Portuguese: literally, new tendency, leaning British Dictionary definitions for bossa nova bossa nova noun

1. a dance similar to the samba, originating in Brazil
2. a piece of music composed for or in the rhythm of this dance

Word Origin for bossa nova C20: Portuguese, literally: new voice Word Origin and History for bossa nova

1962, Brazilian style of music, from Portuguese, literally “new tendency.”