call-and-response

noun

call-and-re·​sponse ˌkȯl-ən(d)-ri-ˈspän(t)s How to pronounce call-and-response (audio)
: a statement quickly followed by an answering statement
also : a musical phrase in which the first and often solo part is answered by a second and often ensemble part

Examples of call-and-response 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.
Kayla Jackson, then Tems’ project manager at RCA (and now marketing consultant), proposed debuting it during her set at the 2024 Coachella festival, where fans at the Mojave Tent instantly picked up on the nostalgic call-and-response track. Heran Mamo, Billboard, 14 May 2025 The brotherly call-and-response is so moving, especially from two guys who famously hated each other. Rob Sheffield, Rolling Stone, 28 Apr. 2025 The lions start a call-and-response – thunder from their throats. Sarah Matusek, Christian Science Monitor, 4 Apr. 2025 Of course, the A did not disappoint, and even made a playful but thunderous call-and-response towards the end of the song. Shaheem Reid, Variety, 4 Feb. 2025 See All Example Sentences for call-and-response

Word History

First Known Use

1827, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of call-and-response was in 1827

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Cite this Entry

“Call-and-response.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/call-and-response. Accessed 24 May. 2025.

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