call-and-response

noun

call-and-re·sponse ˌkȯl-ən(d)-ri-ˈspän(t)s

: 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.

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 Pos asked the crowd, referencing Maseo’s Ralph Lauren wears, before challenging the men and women in their crowd to make their presence felt via the customary call-and-response routine. —

Preezy Brown, VIBE.com, 30 Jan. 2025 Me Da La Gana with lively plena, a Puerto-Rican folk call-and-response genre. —

Maya Georgi, Rolling Stone, 6 Jan. 2025 Produced by Luke himself, the track is built around infectious call-and-response vocals, rapid-fire hi-hats, and a pulsating 808 bassline that rattled trunks across South Florida. —

Walaa Elsiddig, Billboard, 6 Dec. 2024 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

See more words from the same year

Cite this Entry

Style

“Call-and-response.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/call-and-response. Accessed 23 Feb. 2025.

Copy Citation