reggae

noun

reg·​gae ˈre-(ˌ)gā 

ˈrā-

: popular music of Jamaican origin that combines native styles with elements of rock and soul music and is performed at moderate tempos with the accent on the offbeat

Examples of reggae in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Typically performed on acoustic guitar with percussive accompaniment, Garifuna songs combine West African rhythms with Latin, reggae, and calypso music. —Walden Green, Pitchfork, 19 Mar. 2025

There are tinges of reggae, a tad bit of folk, and heaps of heart. —Audra Heinrichs, Rolling Stone, 19 Mar. 2025

Matisyahu unplugged: Jewish-American performer Matisyahu, a thoughtful synthesizer of hip-hop, rock, reggae and spiritual themes, will play two acoustic concerts this weekend. —Ben Crandell, Sun Sentinel, 13 Mar. 2025

The 2025 edition not only celebrated the rich heritage of reggae and dancehall but also addressed contemporary challenges and opportunities, ensuring that Jamaican music continues to resonate globally. —Janeé Bolden, The Hollywood Reporter, 6 Mar. 2025

Word History

Etymology

origin unknown

First Known Use

1968, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for reggae

• ay
• bay
• bey
• brae
• cay
• chez
• dey
• dray
• fay
• fey
• flay
• fray

Kids Definition

reggae

noun

reg·​gae ˈreg-(ˌ)ā 

ˈrāg-

: popular music of Jamaican origin that combines native styles with elements of U.S. Black popular music and is performed at moderate tempos with the accent on the offbeat