reggae: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
B1Informal, but accepted in all contexts when discussing music or culture.
Quick answer
What does “reggae” mean?
A style of popular music originating in Jamaica, characterized by a strong syncopated rhythm, offbeat accents, and often lyrics with social or political themes.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A style of popular music originating in Jamaica, characterized by a strong syncopated rhythm, offbeat accents, and often lyrics with social or political themes.
The culture, lifestyle, and associated visual aesthetics (like Rastafarian colors) connected with this music genre.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant difference in meaning. The word is used identically.
Connotations
In both varieties, it carries connotations of relaxation, rebellion, and Caribbean culture.
Frequency
Slightly higher frequency in UK English due to larger Caribbean diaspora and historical musical influence.
Grammar
How to Use “reggae” in a Sentence
listen to + reggaeplay + reggaebe into + reggaedance to + reggaeVocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “reggae” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- The DJ will reggae up the playlist later.
adjective
British English
- It's a proper reggae night at the pub.
- He has a strong reggae influence in his sound.
American English
- That's a classic reggae beat.
- She's a reggae musician from New York.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Used in contexts of music industry, festival organisation, or cultural tourism.
Academic
Used in musicology, cultural studies, or sociology papers analysing popular culture.
Everyday
Common in conversations about music preferences, holidays, or cultural events.
Technical
Used in music production to describe specific rhythmic patterns, production techniques, or sub-genres.
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “reggae”
- Incorrect pluralisation (e.g., 'reggaes' is rare).
- Misspelling as 'regae' or 'reggie'.
- Using it as a verb (e.g., 'to reggae' is non-standard).
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No, it is typically written in lowercase as it is considered a common noun for a genre (like jazz or rock).
Ska is faster and originated earlier in Jamaica. Reggae is slower, with a more pronounced offbeat rhythm and heavier bass.
Yes, commonly, as in 'reggae music', 'reggae festival', or 'reggae singer'.
Bob Marley is globally the most iconic and influential figure associated with reggae music.
A style of popular music originating in Jamaica, characterized by a strong syncopated rhythm, offbeat accents, and often lyrics with social or political themes.
Reggae is usually informal, but accepted in all contexts when discussing music or culture. in register.
Reggae: in British English it is pronounced /ˈrɛɡeɪ/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈrɛɡeɪ/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “Feel the reggae vibe.”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of 'REGGAE' as 'REGularly Good And Easy' music with a bouncing rhythm.
Conceptual Metaphor
REGGAE IS A FORCE (of nature, of change, of relaxation).
Practice
Quiz
Which of these is most closely associated with the origins of reggae?