Merengue
/məˈrɛŋ.ɡeɪ/noun
A lively dance and music genre originating from the Dominican Republic, characterized by a 2/4 time signature.
Did you know?Some linguists suggest that 'merengue' may derive from the Spanish word for meringue, a sweet dessert, hinting at hidden connections between food and dance in cultural traditions.
Etymological Timeline
Middle Ages
Spanish
merengue
“Originally referred to a type of whipped cream or frothy dessert.”
16th Century
Spanish
merengue
“Transitioned to describe a dance, reflecting lively movements akin to the lightness of whipped cream.”
19th Century
Spanish
merengue
“Became associated with Dominican Republic folk dance, capturing the spirit of celebration.”
20th Century
English
merengue
“Adopted into English to describe both the music genre and the dance, gaining international popularity.”
Explore more surprising origins