mazur

Mazur can refer to several things, most commonly a surname of Polish origin. It is a relatively common surname in Poland and among the Polish diaspora.

In some contexts, "mazur" can also refer to a member of the Mazur people, a Slavic ethnic group historically inhabiting the Masurian region of northeastern Poland. This group is closely related to the Poles.

The term "mazur" is also directly associated with the mazurka, a lively Polish folk dance in triple meter. The mazurka is characterized by its accented beats and often features a stamping foot or clicking heels. Frédéric Chopin famously composed many mazurkas, popularizing the dance internationally. The dance itself is often performed by couples.

Historically, the Masurians were known for their distinct cultural traditions and dialect, though over time, many have assimilated into the broader Polish culture. The region itself, Masuria (Mazury in Polish), is a popular tourist destination known for its numerous lakes.