polyrhythm

noun

poly·​rhythm ˈpä-lē-ˌri-t͟həm How to pronounce polyrhythm (audio)
: the simultaneous combination of contrasting rhythms in music
polyrhythmic adjective
polyrhythmically adverb

Examples of polyrhythm in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
These examples are automatically compiled from online sources to illustrate current usage. Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.
Seldom settling for straightforward linearity or conventional structure, the group arranged sophisticated polyrhythms into the aural equivalent of jigsaw puzzles, and juggled scales and time signatures with profound dexterity. Bob Gendron, Chicago Tribune, 2 Nov. 2024 Mirada is one of Cornejo’s most mature efforts yet, extending his brand of melancholy corridos and mixing them with alt-rock sounds and surprising polyrhythms. Julyssa Lopez, Rolling Stone, 18 July 2024 In this way, Koenig most resembles Simon, whose music—including its deft (if ballsy) adoption of polyrhythms from sub-Saharan Africa—has always been a major touchstone for the band. Amanda Petrusich, The New Yorker, 1 Apr. 2024 Anton starts with rhythm guitar, and then my guitar melody comes in, and then Arthur’s texture of strings takes over that, and eventually, the bass and drums playing a polyrhythm against the rest of us. Liza Lentini, SPIN, 2 Feb. 2024 See all Example Sentences for polyrhythm 

Word History

First Known Use

1908, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of polyrhythm was in 1908

Dictionary Entries Near polyrhythm

Cite this Entry

“Polyrhythm.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/polyrhythm. Accessed 15 Nov. 2024.

More from Merriam-Webster on polyrhythm

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!