rap
rap
Rap (noun) means a rhythmic style of music where lyrics are spoken quickly, usually over a beat. Example: “Rap often relies on clever rhymes and a strong, steady rhythm.”
noun
1
A rhythmic style of music where lyrics are spoken quickly, usually over a beat.
"Rap often relies on clever rhymes and a strong, steady rhythm."
"He's been writing rap lyrics since he was a teenager."
"The album blends rap with soul influences."
2
A quick, sharp knock or blow.
"Two quick raps on the window told me my friend had arrived."
"There was a rap at the door just after midnight."
"She gave the table a sharp rap to get everyone's attention."
3
Informal: blame, especially for a crime.
"Nobody wanted to take the rap when the project failed."
"He took the rap for something he didn't do."
"She refused to take the rap on his behalf."
verb
1
To perform in the style of rap music.
"She likes to rap in the shower, though she never lets anyone hear."
"He can rap an entire verse without taking a breath."
"The kids loved rapping along to their favourite songs."
2
To hit something quickly and sharply.
"The teacher rapped the desk twice to quieten the noisy class."
"She rapped on the window to get his attention."
"He rapped his knuckles against the door."
How to use rap
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA style of rhythmic spoken music, or a sharp knock; informally, to take blame for something.
Easily confused with
Common pairings
rap music
take the rap
a rap on the door
rap artist
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Word forms
- Plural
- raps
- Third person singular
- raps
- Past tense
- rapped, rapt
Fill the gap
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_____ often relies on clever rhymes and a strong, steady rhythm.
Etymology
From Middle English rap, rappe, of North Germanic origin, related to Norwegian rapp (“a blow, strike, lash”), Swedish rapp (“a blow, lash, crack”), Danish rap (“a tap, smart, blow”). Compare Old English hreppan (“to touch, treat”). More at rape.
Related words
Rhymes for rap
See all rhymes for rap →Frequently asked questions
What does “rap” mean?
The word “rap” means a rhythmic style of music where lyrics are spoken quickly, usually over a beat. In plain terms, a style of rhythmic spoken music, or a sharp knock; informally, to take blame for something.
How do you pronounce “rap”?
“Rap” is pronounced rap (/ɹæp/ in IPA).
How do you use “rap” in a sentence?
Here is “rap” used in a sentence: “He's been writing rap lyrics since he was a teenager.”
What part of speech is “rap”?
Depending on how it is used, “rap” can be a noun and a verb.
Is “rap” a common word?
“Rap” is a fairly common word in modern English, usually learned at around the A2 level.
How many meanings does “rap” have?
“Rap” has 5 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: a rhythmic style of music where lyrics are spoken quickly, usually over a beat.
What is the difference between rap and hip-hop?
Rap is the vocal style in which lyrics are spoken quickly and rhythmically over a beat. Hip-hop is the broader culture and music genre that includes rap along with elements like DJing, so rap is one part of hip-hop.
Is it 'bad rap' or 'bad rep'?
The standard idiom is 'bad rap,' meaning unfair blame or a poor reputation. 'Bad rep' is a common variation, since 'rep' is short for reputation, but 'bad rap' is the traditional and widely accepted form.
What is the difference between 'rap' and 'wrap'?
Rap and wrap sound alike but differ in meaning. Rap is a music style or a sharp knock, while wrap means to cover or enclose something, as in wrapping a gift.
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