Definition of ragtime
1 : rhythm characterized by strong syncopation in the melody with a regularly accented accompaniment in stride-piano style
2 : music having ragtime rhythm
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Recent Examples of ragtime from the Web
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Enid then gravitates towards Seymour (a career-defining performance for Buscemi), becoming fascinated by this outcast of a different generation, a record collector who can’t help but correct people over the difference between blues and ragtime.
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It’s late night folk with a dollop of ragtime and the occasional electronic jamboree.
These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'ragtime'. Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Origin and Etymology of ragtime
probably from ragged + time
First Known Use: 1896
RAGTIME Defined for English Language Learners
ragtime
playDefinition of ragtime for English Language Learners
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: a type of lively music that is often played on the piano and that was very popular in the U.S. in the early part of the 20th century
RAGTIME Defined for Kids
ragtime
playDefinition of ragtime for Students
: music that has a lively melody and a steady rhythm like a march
Learn More about ragtime
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See words that rhyme with ragtime Spanish Central: Translation of ragtime Nglish: Translation of ragtime for Spanish speakers Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about ragtime
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