rock-'n'-roll

or rock-and-roll, rock 'n' roll

[ rok-uhn-rohl ]

noun

1. a style of popular music that derives in part from blues and folk music and is marked by a heavily accented beat and a simple, repetitive phrase structure.

adjective

1. of or relating to this music.

verb (used without object)

1. to dance to or play rock-'n'-roll.

rock 'n' roll

1. Popular music combining elements of blues (or rhythm and blues), gospel music , and country and western music , and known for its strong beat and urgent lyrics. Well-known early, pioneering rock 'n' roll artists or groups include Chuck Berry , Buddy Holly, the Supremes, the Beatles , the Rolling Stones, and Elvis Presley .

Other Words From

• rock-'n'-roller noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of rock-'n'-roll¹

1950–55; contraction of phrase rock and roll; rock ²

Example Sentences

The Maysles, who five years later would direct what is largely considered the greatest of all rock ’n’ roll documentaries, “Gimme Shelter,” were founding members of the fly-on-the-wall “direct cinema” movement, the domestic cousin of ciinéma vérité.

From Los Angeles Times

In November 2023, Sir Elton told the Rock 'n' Roll Hall of Fame ceremony he had "just finished" a new album with lyricist Bernie Taupin.

From BBC

While both metal and hip-hop audiences are quick to call out posers, Ice-T comes by his rock ‘n’ roll bona fides thanks to his teens in L.A., the city he moved to after both his parents passed away.

From Los Angeles Times

The Paley Brothers released an LP in 1978 and teamed with the Ramones to cover Ritchie Valens’ “Come on Let’s Go” for the next year’s “Rock ’n’ Roll High School” movie.

From Los Angeles Times

But although the Caerphilly gig went ahead, they were met by a large group of singing Christians, who picketed fans as they went in, which featured in the Pistols' film The Great Rock 'n' Roll Swindle.

From BBC

Related Words

• popular music