country music

noun

: music derived from or imitating the folk style of the Southern U.S. or of the Western cowboy

especially : popular vocal music characterized by simple harmonies, accompaniment by stringed instruments (such as guitar, fiddle, banjo, and pedal steel), repeated choruses, and often narrative lyrics

called also country, country and western

Examples of country music in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

The comedic actress, who stars alongside friend and country music legend Reba McEntire in the NBC sitcom Happy's Place, and Brady, celebrated their 25th wedding anniversary on June 5, 2024. —Avalon Hester, PEOPLE, 5 Dec. 2025

The previous summer, Moroney was in Pittsburgh as an opener for fellow country music star Kenny Chesney. —Mike Darnay, CBS News, 5 Dec. 2025

Across our 95 categories, there’s great country music being made this year and great nominees. —Kristin Robinson, Billboard, 4 Dec. 2025

Released back in October, the 12-track record is heavy on the rewards and perils of the touring required to make a dent in the collective country music conscience. —Josh Crutchmer, Rolling Stone, 1 Dec. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1942, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

country music

noun

: music coming from or imitating the folk style of the Southern U.S. or the Western cowboy