rickenbacker: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C2Specialized / Technical
Quick answer
What does “rickenbacker” mean?
A brand name for high-quality electric guitars and basses, originating from the Rickenbacker International Corporation. It refers specifically to the instruments produced by this company.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A brand name for high-quality electric guitars and basses, originating from the Rickenbacker International Corporation. It refers specifically to the instruments produced by this company.
In extended use, particularly in music circles, the term can connote a specific sound, aesthetic, or era of music (often associated with 1960s rock) due to the iconic models like the 360/12 and 4001 bass. It can also be used metonymically to refer to a guitarist who plays such an instrument.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant differences in meaning or usage. The brand and its cultural associations are global within music communities.
Connotations
In both regions, strongly associated with classic rock (The Beatles, The Byrds), jangle-pop, and progressive rock bass tones. Slightly more historical/conservative connotations compared to more modern guitar brands.
Frequency
Equally low-frequency in general English, but common within the specific domain of musicians, luthiers, and music historians in both the UK and US.
Grammar
How to Use “rickenbacker” in a Sentence
[musician] + plays/owns/uses + a Rickenbacker[song/album] + was recorded + on a RickenbackerThe + [model name] + is a classic RickenbackerVocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “rickenbacker” in a Sentence
adjective
British English
- That's a very Rickenbacker-esque tone.
- The track has a classic Rickenbacker jangle.
American English
- He's known for his Rickenbacker sound.
- It's a very Rickenbacker kind of vibe.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Used in the musical instrument retail, manufacturing, and marketing industries.
Academic
Used in musicology, cultural studies, and history of technology texts discussing instrument design and its impact on popular music.
Everyday
Virtually unused unless discussing music or guitars specifically.
Technical
Used in lutherie, guitar reviews, musician gear forums, and sound engineering contexts discussing specific tonal characteristics.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “rickenbacker”
Strong
Weak
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “rickenbacker”
- Using it as a common noun ('a rickenbacker' without capitalisation).
- Using it to refer to any electric bass guitar.
- Misspelling (e.g., Rickenbacher, Rickenbakker).
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No, it is a specific brand name. Using it generically is incorrect.
John Lennon and George Harrison of The Beatles, Roger McGuinn of The Byrds, and Pete Townshend of The Who are among the most famous players.
Guitars are often described as having a bright, clear, and chiming 'jangle', especially the 12-string models. Basses are known for a pronounced mid-range and growl.
No, as it is a proper noun and trademark, it should always be capitalized.
A brand name for high-quality electric guitars and basses, originating from the Rickenbacker International Corporation. It refers specifically to the instruments produced by this company.
Rickenbacker is usually specialized / technical in register.
Rickenbacker: in British English it is pronounced /ˈrɪkənˌbækə/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈrɪkənˌbækər/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think: 'Rich backer' -> A wealthy sponsor might buy you an expensive, high-quality Rickenbacker guitar.
Conceptual Metaphor
INSTRUMENT FOR SOUND/ERA: 'The Rickenbacker' can metaphorically stand for the bright, chiming 'jangle' sound of mid-60s rock.
Practice
Quiz
What is a 'Rickenbacker' primarily known as?