Spanish word

vals

Pronunciation

IPA/bals/

Meaning

  • masculine nounwaltz

Example

¿Quieres bailar un vals conmigo?

Do you want to dance a waltz with me?

Illustration for vals (waltz)

More examples

¿Escuchas el compás de este vals?

Can you hear the rhythm of this waltz?

Core concept

A sweeping partner dance that emphasizes the first beat of each three-beat measure.

Common phrases

  • bailar un vals

    dance a waltz

  • compás de vals

    waltz rhythm

  • un vals alegre

    a cheerful waltz

Similar words

baile: Moves the body to music for enjoyment in any style, from casual fun to social events.
danza: Performs choreographed dance that emphasizes formal technique, set steps, and presentation.
tango: Expresses intense feeling through close embrace, sharp rhythms, and dramatic steps.
salsa: Dances socially to lively Latin rhythms with clear lead-and-follow patterns and fast footwork.

Definition in Spanish

Composición musical y danza en compás de tres por cuatro pensada para el baile en pareja, con pasos que marcan el primer tiempo.

Word origin

Loanword from German Walzer, ultimately from Middle High German walzen 'to roll or turn', adopted into Spanish through Italian and French.

Usage tips

  • Spanish invitations normally include the indefinite article (bailar un vals) where English commonly omits the article in 'waltz with me'.

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