beatboxing

[ beet-bok-sing ]

noun

1. a musical style or technique, especially in hip-hop, in which the sounds and rhythms of percussion instruments or a drum machine are simulated by using the mouth and voice:

   We heard some amazing beatboxing last night.

beatboxing

/ ˈbiːtˌbɒksɪŋ /

noun

1. a form of hip-hop music in which the voice is used to simulate percussion instruments

Derived Forms

• ˈbeatˌboxer, noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of beatboxing¹

1985–90, Americanism; beatbox (verb) + -ing ¹

Example Sentences

Carter made use of the club’s subwoofers with his flashlight, putting his humorously sharp beatboxing party starter skills on display to test the limits of the Kookaburra’s sound system.

From Los Angeles Times

He left behind an incredible legacy, celebrated for his beatboxing prowess, turntable mastery and the 1989 classic “Just a Friend.”

From Seattle Times

In Sacha Jenkins’ buoyantly entertaining, life-affirming documentary “All Up in the Biz,” some of those people who knew Biz as a teenager — including Rakim, Big Daddy Kane, the members of De La Soul and more — tell funny stories about how he was just sort of always around, making everyone laugh with his absurd boasts, weird dances and beatboxing skills.

From Los Angeles Times

And since its birth, emceeing, beatboxing, deejaying, and graffiti have done much more than entertain legions of fans around the world and generate billions of dollars in commerce – hip-hop’s four elements carry the spirit of resistance and free expression as a comfort to the afflicted and affliction to those who are too comfortable.

From Seattle Times

As “Rapper’s Delight” gained momentum in 1980, Too Short gravitated more toward beatboxing.

From Seattle Times