background music

noun

: music to accompany something (such as a public event, a movie, or a television show)
the background music playing during the procession

Examples of background music in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Fortunately, the unsettling effect is offset by goofy background music, reminding viewers that even the most advanced robots can have a sense of humor on Halloween. Kaif Shaikh, Interesting Engineering, 3 Nov. 2025 Bring the theme home with background music courtesy of the film's soundtrack or some autumnal instrumental jazz. Elizabeth Fogarty, Better Homes & Gardens, 29 Oct. 2025 In Other News • Stella’s voice-over throughout the episode, which is eventually revealed to be her apology letter to Mia, is full of very serious confessions, but what was with the film-noir background music laid over the entire thing? Maggie Fremont, Vulture, 22 Oct. 2025 The sound is surprisingly effective for podcasts and background music, and the setup couldn’t get simpler. Juhi Wadia, PC Magazine, 7 Oct. 2025 See All Example Sentences for background music

Word History

First Known Use

1928, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of background music was in 1928

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Background music.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/background%20music. Accessed 9 Nov. 2025.

Kids Definition

background music

noun
: music played to go along with and add to the story or mood of a movie or radio or television show

More from Merriam-Webster on background music

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!