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 church hummed with energy as the gathering engaged in call-and-response heard just about any Sunday in Baptist churches. —Miami Herald, 14 Apr. 2026

Traditional música jíbara, characterized by décima poetry (an ancient style of poetry from Spain), call-and-response singing, and instruments such as the cuatro, articulated the experiences, struggles, and values of rural life. —Encyclopedia Britannica, 20 Mar. 2026

What exactly is that otherworldly lead bridging into the song’s midpoint and bookending its call-and-response outro? —Billie Bugara, Pitchfork, 7 Mar. 2026

Through singing, movement and playful call-and-response, kids help create songs live while grownups are invited to join the fun. —Melissa Grzybowski, Austin American Statesman, 27 Feb. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1827, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for call-and-response

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