# bluegrass

/ˈbɫuˌɡɹæs/ (US) · /blˈuːɡɹɑːs/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/bluegrass
Updated: 2026-08-27

## Senses

### 1. music genre

noun · CEFR B2

a style of American country music played on acoustic instruments like the banjo, fiddle, and mandolin.

For teachers: a subgenre of American roots music characterized by acoustic stringed instruments, high-pitched vocals, and fast-paced improvisation.

- We spent the whole weekend at a bluegrass festival listening to amazing banjo players.
- The band blended traditional bluegrass with modern jazz elements, creating a sound that appealed to both purists and younger audiences.

Usage: Usually uncountable when referring to the genre.

### 2. type of grass

noun · CEFR C1 · Technical

a common type of grass with bluish-green stems, often grown in parks and gardens in North America.

For teachers: a species of grass, Poa pratensis, valued for its durability in lawns and pastures, particularly in the eastern United States.

- Kentucky is famous for its beautiful fields of bluegrass.
- The landscaper recommended a hardy variety of bluegrass for the new park because it withstands heavy foot traffic well.

Usage: Can be countable when referring to specific botanical varieties.

## Examples

- The band played fast bluegrass music all night.
- The festival features several bluegrass bands that specialize in traditional acoustic arrangements and three-part vocal harmonies.
- While sharing roots with traditional country music, bluegrass is distinguished by its emphasis on instrumental virtuosity and its rejection of electric instruments in favor of a purely acoustic sound.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.