The Samoan word for dance is siva with unique gentle movements of the body in time to music and which tells a story, although the Samoan male dances can be more physical and snappy. The sasa is also a traditional dance where rows of dancers perform rapid synchronised movements in time to the rhythm of wooden drums (pate) or rolled mats. Another dance performed by males is called the fa'ataupati or the slap dance, creating rhythmic sounds by slapping different parts of the body. This is believed to have been derived from slapping insects on the body.
What does "siva" mean in Samoan? What's the name of the traditional Samoan dance performed by synchronized rows of dancers? What is the name of the Samoan dance only men can perform? What are pates? The "slap dance" probably mimics the movements of Samoans trying to rid themselves of what creatures?