BOLERO, a lively Spanish dance, in 3-4 time with a strongly marked rhythm of which, however, the precise nature is often varied ; also the music to which it is danced and other compo sitions cast in the same form. As danced in Spain the bolero is usually accompanied by the castanets and sometimes also by singing. In classical music the best known example is that of Chopin for pianoforte solo (op. 19). The term is also applied by ladies' dressmakers to a short sleeveless coat similar to those worn by the Spanish peasantry.