zoukhttp://www.oed.com/dictionary/zouk_n%3Ftab%3Dmeaning_and_usezouk, n.
Revised 2021

zouknoun

  1. 1986–
    A style of popular dance music combining Caribbean (esp. French Antillean) and Western elements, and characterized by a strong fast beat derived from traditional Antillean drumming. Also: a style of dancing associated with this music.
    Popularized by the group Kassav' (formed in 1979).
    1. 1986
      Zouk is hot stuff, a blending of Haitian compas and cadence rhythms with traditional elements of the Antilles like the ti bois and gwo ka rhythms.
      Reggae & Afr. Beat No. 4. 27/2
    2. 1992
      West Indian culture is highly visible here. No politicians, but superstars like the zouk bands Kassav and Malavoi.
      Caribbean Week April 8/2
    3. 2003
      Dancing the zouk in a Fort-de-France nightclub.
      Daily Telegraph (Australia) (Nexis) 9 November i11
    4. 2011
      Zouk's rise in popularity across the globe gave a rise in status for Martinicans, Guadeloupeans, and other Creole-speaking islanders.
      Y. Daniel, Caribbean & Atlantic Diaspora v. 94

zouk, n. was revised in September 2021.

zouk, n. was last modified in July 2023.