groove
Groove (noun) means a long, narrow cut or channel in a surface. Example: “The record needle followed the groove on the vinyl.”
How to use groove
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA narrow channel cut into a surface, or a catchy rhythm you can move to.
"In the groove" or "find your groove" means being comfortable and doing something well and naturally.
Trace the full origin ↓Word forms
grooved past tense, grooves plural, grooves singular
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
The record needle followed the _____ on the vinyl.
Etymology
From Middle English grove, meaning a pit or mining shaft, related to Old Norse gróf ("pit") — the modern sense of a narrow channel developed later.
Synonyms
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Rhymes for groove
See all rhymes for groove →Frequently asked questions
What does “groove” mean?
The word “groove” means a long, narrow cut or channel in a surface. In plain terms, a narrow channel cut into a surface, or a catchy rhythm you can move to.
How do you pronounce “groove”?
“Groove” is pronounced groov (/ɡɹuv/ in IPA).
How do you use “groove” in a sentence?
Here is “groove” used in a sentence: “The record needle followed the groove on the vinyl.”
What part of speech is “groove”?
Depending on how it is used, “groove” can be a noun and a verb.
Where does the word “groove” come from?
The word “groove” comes from Middle English. From Middle English grove, meaning a pit or mining shaft, related to Old Norse gróf ("pit") — the modern sense of a narrow channel developed later.
Is “groove” a common word?
“Groove” is an uncommon word in modern English.
How many meanings does “groove” have?
“Groove” has 3 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: a long, narrow cut or channel in a surface.
What is the difference between a groove and a rut?
A groove is a narrow cut or channel in a surface, and figuratively can mean an enjoyable rhythm or a comfortable routine. A rut also refers to a channel or worn track, but figuratively it carries a negative sense of being stuck in a dull, unchanging pattern, unlike the positive musical or flow-state sense of groove.
What does it mean to be in the groove?
To be "in the groove" means performing something smoothly and confidently, often in a rhythmic or effortless way, drawing on the musical sense of groove as a strong, enjoyable rhythm. It can apply to music, sport, work, or any activity where someone finds a comfortable, productive rhythm.
When is groove used as a verb versus a noun?
As a noun, groove refers to a physical channel in a surface or a rhythmic feel in music. As a verb, to groove means to dance or move enjoyably to rhythmic music, as in "they were grooving to the beat."
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