big band

noun

: a band that is larger than a combo and that usually features a mixture of ensemble playing and solo improvisation typical of jazz or swing

Examples of big band in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web Founded in 1964, Fania Records became a powerhouse label with a signature sound: the apex of tropical music, combined with big band jazz and American R&B, jazz, funk and soul. Sigal Ratner-Arias, Billboard, 16 Apr. 2024 Trumpeter-composer Marsalis' big band usually features Greenfield High School alum Dan Nimmer on piano. Jim Higgins, Journal Sentinel, 25 Mar. 2024 See all Example Sentences for big band 

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'big band.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

First Known Use

1917, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of big band was in 1917

Dictionary Entries Near big band

Cite this Entry

“Big band.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/big%20band. Accessed 29 May. 2024.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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