world music

noun

: popular music originating from or influenced by non-Western musical traditions and often having a danceable rhythm
usually hyphenated when used attributively

Examples of world music in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
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Our repertoire includes pop songs, show tunes, folk and world music. Ramona Sentinel, San Diego Union-Tribune, 27 Mar. 2025 Its culture scene is rich and busy, with theater shows, live music, and festivals dedicated to rock, jazz, and world music throughout the year, plus museums, galleries, bars, and restaurants serving up world-class cuisine. Kathleen Peddicord, Forbes, 14 Mar. 2025 Zoom out: The other unique feature is the sweeping world music section, organized by continent and featuring both popular and obscure international artists. Sommer Brugal, Axios, 14 Mar. 2025 From belting out soul classics to exploring world music influences, Stone's career has been a captivating, eclectic, journey. Thomas G. Moukawsher, Newsweek, 5 Mar. 2025 See All Example Sentences for world music

Word History

First Known Use

1982, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of world music was in 1982

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Cite this Entry

“World music.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/world%20music. Accessed 10 Apr. 2025.

Kids Definition

world music

noun
: popular music based on non-Western musical traditions and often having a danceable rhythm
world-music adjective

More from Merriam-Webster on world music

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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