jam session

[ jam sesh-uhn ]

noun

1. Music.
   1. a meeting of a group of musicians, especially jazz musicians, to improvise, experiment, or play for their own enjoyment.
   2. an impromptu musical performance, especially of jazz.
   3. a special performance by musicians, especially jazz musicians, who do not regularly play together.
2. an informal, freely collaborative meeting, conference, or discussion:

   The event was a laid-back jam session for creatives to get together and network.

jam session

noun

1. slang.
   an unrehearsed or improvised jazz or rock performance

Word History and Origins

Origin of jam session¹

First recorded in 1930–35; perhaps jam ¹, or shortening of jamboree

Word History and Origins

Origin of jam session¹

C20: probably from jam ¹

Example Sentences

The ride turns into a giant jam session.

From Los Angeles Times

“All signs point to a jam session,” Agatha concludes.

From Los Angeles Times

In the opening scenes, Philibert turns his camera on an unnamed toothy gentleman belting scratchy vocals during a jam session.

From New York Times

“On the Adamant” is like a jam session, too — a jumble of bright spots and tedious meanderings.

From New York Times

But it was during this first jam session that they realized how well they complement one another and discovered their shared love of wide-ranging musical taste, especially musical theater.

From Los Angeles Times