call-and-response

noun

call-and-re·​sponse ˌkȯl-ən(d)-ri-ˈspän(t)s 

: a statement quickly followed by an answering statement

also : a musical phrase in which the first and often solo part is answered by a second and often ensemble part

Examples of call-and-response in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

The little four-note melodic scraps tumble over each other ceaselessly in a call-and-response that scrambles your sense of which end is transmission and which is reception. — Jayson Greene, Pitchfork, 16 June 2026

Pop’s vocals add imperfect earthiness, grounding the album in what feels almost like blues call-and-response. — David Harris, SPIN, 16 June 2026

Whereas that game is meant to disorient you, Rhythm Heaven Groove's bold and memorable cartoon scenes enhance the game's Simon Says-like call-and-response quality. — Jordan Minor, PC Magazine, 11 June 2026

Singing mice Singing mice live high in the cloud forests of Costa Rica, engaging in chirping call-and-response duets that can change slightly depending on responses received. — ArsTechnica, 1 June 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1827, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for call-and-response

• bons
• hans
• launce
• nonce
• sconce
• naissance
• response
• nonchalance
• nonresponse
• renaissance