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theme song

noun

plural theme songs
1
: a song or melody strongly associated with someone or something
a famous performer's theme song
the theme song of a political campaign
often : an identifying melody or song typically played at the beginning of a movie, television show, etc., and sometimes recurring during its course
Some of these shows were truly unforgettable, with catchy theme songs that are instantly recognizable decades later. Grant Butler
2
: a statement, expression, or opinion repeatedly heard from someone
But literary history is also entangled with criticism. Inevitably so; let me revert unblushingly to my theme song: in order to appreciate a masterpiece, we must be acquainted with its language …Albert Guerard

Examples of theme song in a Sentence

He was playing the theme song from “The Godfather.”
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.
The theme song from Sonic Unleashed is still a favorite among fans, who fervently rally its GOAT status online. Christopher Cruz, Rolling Stone, 17 Nov. 2025 The subject matter sounds heavy, but the theme song turns to be… to borrow a phrase… actually romantic — romantic about love, and about life itself, against some obvious odds. Chris Willman, Variety, 14 Nov. 2025 As seen in video footage, the robot, flanked by two helpers, came out onstage at the event to the Rocky movie theme song, taking small steps. David Chiu, PEOPLE, 13 Nov. 2025 The night began with a pro routine choreographed by Derek Hough featuring some exciting returners from past seasons, including the Season 1 pros, remixing the classic DWTS theme song to showcase the best of ballroom dancing. Katie Campione, Deadline, 11 Nov. 2025 See All Example Sentences for theme song

Word History

First Known Use

1908, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of theme song was in 1908

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Theme song.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/theme%20song. Accessed 2 Dec. 2025.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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