ragtime

noun

rag·​time ˈrag-ˌtīm How to pronounce ragtime (audio)
1
: rhythm characterized by strong syncopation in the melody with a regularly accented accompaniment in stride-piano style
2
: music having ragtime rhythm

Examples of ragtime 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.
Its sound is a melting pot of musical influences, incorporating remnants of ragtime, blues, and African rhythms, among others. Okla Jones, Essence, 10 Mar. 2025 Two of Beethoven’s most philosophical, probing sonatas frame a suite of jazz, ragtime, and popular song — from Joplin to Nina Simone … Charles Ives didn’t just want to mix popular and classical music. Jane Levere, Forbes, 12 Dec. 2024 Part of the university's Public Appearances series, the show features seasonal favorites in a mix of blues, jazz and ragtime. Eric E. Harrison, arkansasonline.com, 11 Dec. 2024 Joplin also incorporated ragtime into a number of other works, including a ballet and two operas. Michael Barnes, Austin American-Statesman, 26 Nov. 2024 See All Example Sentences for ragtime

Word History

Etymology

probably from ragged + time

First Known Use

1896, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of ragtime was in 1896

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Cite this Entry

“Ragtime.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/ragtime. Accessed 20 Mar. 2025.

Kids Definition

ragtime

noun
rag·​time ˈrag-ˌtīm How to pronounce ragtime (audio)
1
: music played with a strong march-style rhythm and a lively melody with accented notes falling on beats that are not usually accented
2
: music having ragtime rhythm

More from Merriam-Webster on ragtime

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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