Kol means a small stick, and Attam means play, hence, a play or dance performed with sticks can be its simplest meaning. This is mentioned in Kanchipuram as `Cheivaikiyar Kolattam`, which proves its antiquity. Only women perform this dacne. They hold two sticks in each hand and beat those together to bring a rhythmic background. Kolaattam offers a great variety of entertainment not only to spectators but also to the participants.

Pinnal Kolaattam is also a form of this dance where ropes are used instead of sticks. One end of these ropes is held in the woman`s hand while the other is tied to a tall pole. Later, with planned steps, the women skip over each other, forming intricate lace-like patterns in the ropes. Then again, they unweave the lace by reversing the dance steps. This dance is very attractive for the eyes, as various colourful ropes are used. This dance is performed for ten days, starting with the Amavasi or New-moon night after Deepavali.

A festival connected with Kolaattam has both a cultural and a religious significance. A legend is responsible for celebrating this festival after which, this festival is celebrated as Kolatta Jothrai in a number of places in Tamil Nadu.