jazz
/dʒæz/
NOUN
1. A genre of music
A style of music originating in African American communities, characterized by improvisation, syncopated rhythms, swing, distinctive harmonies, and expressive performance.
1.1. Jazz as a musical genre
A broad musical genre that includes styles such as swing, bebop, Dixieland, and fusion, often featuring improvisation and syncopated rhythms.
Synonyms
- jazz music
- jass
Examples
- She listens to jazz whenever she wants to relax.
- The festival celebrates traditional jazz and contemporary improvisational music.
Related Words
- Dixieland
- bebop
- swing
- ragtime
- blues
- fusion jazz
- improvisation
- syncopation
1.2. A particular style or subgenre of jazz
Used in compounds or expressions referring to specific forms and variations of jazz music.
Synonyms
- bebop
- Dixieland
- hot jazz
- fusion jazz
- swing
Examples
- The club specializes in bebop and other forms of jazz.
- The musicians experimented with fusion jazz.
Related Words
- cool jazz
- free jazz
- hard bop
- modal jazz
- Latin jazz
NOUN
2. Energy, excitement, or liveliness
Informal language referring to enthusiasm, energy, excitement, or an appealing quality that makes something more lively.
2.1. Energy and enthusiasm
A lively or exciting quality that gives an event, activity, or atmosphere extra energy and appeal.
Synonyms
Antonyms
- lethargy
- dullness
- apathy
Examples
- The performers brought plenty of jazz to the evening's entertainment.
- The new design adds some jazz to an otherwise ordinary room.
Related Words
- enthusiasm
- exuberance
- animation
- excitement
- vivacity
2.2. The usual additional details or things
An informal expression, often used in the phrase 'and all that jazz,' referring vaguely to other related things, details, or activities.
Synonyms
- stuff
- things
- whatnot
- and so on
Examples
- We discussed the budget, the schedule, and all that jazz.
- Bring your documents, identification, and all that jazz.
Related Words
- etcetera
- details
- accessories
- extras
NOUN
3. Nonsense or empty talk
Informal or slang language referring to foolish, meaningless, exaggerated, or deceptive talk.
3.1. Meaningless or foolish talk
Words or statements regarded as absurd, insincere, exaggerated, or lacking truth and substance.
Synonyms
- nonsense
- baloney
- balderdash
- hogwash
- bunk
- bunkum
- rubbish
- drivel
- twaddle
- poppycock
Antonyms
Examples
- He dismissed the explanation as a lot of jazz.
- I do not believe that jazz about everything being perfect.
Related Words
VERB
4. To play jazz music
To perform music in the jazz style, typically involving improvisation and characteristic jazz rhythms.
4.1. Performing jazz music
Playing or performing jazz compositions or improvisations, either individually or as part of a musical group.
Synonyms
- play jazz
- perform jazz
Examples
- The musicians jazzed together until midnight.
- He learned to jazz on the piano when he was young.
Related Words
VERB
5. To make something more lively or attractive
To enliven, brighten, decorate, or improve something by adding energy, color, excitement, or interest.
5.1. Making something more exciting or appealing
To add visual interest, energy, or liveliness to something that is plain, ordinary, or dull.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Examples
- She jazzed up the presentation with colorful illustrations.
- A few accessories can jazz up a simple outfit.
Related Words
VERB
6. To move or dance energetically
To move about in a lively, energetic, or playful manner, often in connection with jazz music.
6.1. Dancing to jazz music
To dance or move rhythmically in response to jazz music.
Synonyms
Examples
- The couples jazzed across the dance floor.
- They jazzed to the band's lively performance.
Related Words
6.2. Moving around playfully or energetically
To move about in a lively, carefree, or frivolous way rather than remaining still.
Synonyms
- fool around
- frolic
- cavort
- romp
Examples
- The children jazzed around the garden all afternoon.
Related Words
- prance
- skip
- frolic
- play