jam band

noun

plural jam bands
: a band (especially a rock band) whose performances are distinguished by frequent and often lengthy jazzlike improvisation
Blues Traveler is part of the new wave of jam bands … that play long, long shows and inspire fan devotion reminiscent of the Grateful Dead. Dean Johnson
This Friday, the jam band Phish—which … remains uniquely regarded for its improvisational prowess and zealous, wayfaring fans—will arrive in New York City for thirteen shows … Amanda Petrusich
… Moon Taxi embodies the best of the jam band aesthetic: positive, bright, challenging and fun. Ann Powers
sometimes hyphenated when used before another noun
Gov't Mule brought a refreshing oomph to … the jam-band scene. Matt Wake

Examples of jam band 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.
Goose is the rare jam band that actually gets radio play. Michael Deeds, Idaho Statesman, 27 Jan. 2025 American jam band Phish will headline Bourbon & Beyond this year, promising fans that their appearance at the Sept. 11-14 festival held annually in Louisville, Ky., and organized by award-winning festival producers Danny Wimmer Presents will be the band’s only festival stop for 2025. Dave Brooks, Billboard, 5 Feb. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1934, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of jam band was in 1934

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Cite this Entry

“Jam band.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/jam%20band. Accessed 25 Mar. 2025.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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