background music

noun

: music to accompany the dialogue or action of a motion picture or radio or television drama

Examples of background music in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Zoom out: Trump likes to play the role of DJ at his Palm Beach club, but the background music will likely be dominated by the same talk that has consumed D.C. Marc Caputo, Axios, 8 Jan. 2025 If this musical score is your background music for the month of December, make these DIY walnut ornaments to hang on your tree or adorn a garland in the kitchen or dining room. Maria Sabella, Better Homes & Gardens, 5 Dec. 2024 During the day, Moore said guests will hear the same background music that’s in the queue for the ride. Eve Chen, USA TODAY, 20 Dec. 2024 The Bridgerton Fireplace is (naturally) set in the Bridgerton living room and features background music from the series. Todd Spangler, Variety, 13 Dec. 2024 See all Example Sentences for background music 

Word History

First Known Use

1928, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of background music was in 1928

Dictionary Entries Near background music

Cite this Entry

“Background music.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/background%20music. Accessed 18 Jan. 2025.

Kids Definition

background music

noun
: music played to go along with and add to the story or mood of a movie or radio or television show

More from Merriam-Webster on background music

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!