Hora
/ˈhɔːrə/noun
A lively communal circle dance, especially one associated with Romania, Moldova, Greece, or the Balkans.
Did you know?The English word hora belongs to the same ancient Greek word-family as chorus and choreography, linking communal dance with theatrical performance and ritual movement.
Etymological Timeline
Ancient Greek
Greek
χορός (khoros)
“A chorus or group performing song and dance, especially in ritual and theatrical settings.”
Classical Latin
Latin
chorus
“A chorus, troupe of dancers, or organized group singing and dancing.”
Late Latin
Latin
chorus
“A group participating in religious or theatrical song and movement.”
Medieval to Modern Romanian
Romanian
horă
“A traditional communal circle dance, with dancers joining hands or shoulders.”
19th–20th Century
English
hora
“A borrowed name for a Balkan or Eastern European circle dance.”
Explore more surprising origins