vals

waltz

noun BAHLS Rare

Origin: From German Walzer, from walzen ('to roll, to turn'), entering Spanish via French valse in the 19th century.

Usage Note

Vals is invariable in the plural — both un vals and dos vals are correct, though valses is also accepted. It refers both to the dance and to a piece of music in triple time. The expression bailar un vals ('to dance a waltz') is the standard collocation; at formal events el primer vals marks the bridal couple's opening dance.

Examples

"La pareja bailó un vals elegante."

Natural Translation

The couple danced an elegant waltz.

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