# hip hop

CEFR A2 · Compound

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/hip-hop
Updated: 2026-10-06

## Definition

a style of popular music and culture that started in the 1970s. It usually includes rhythmic talking called rapping, electronic beats, and specific styles of dancing and art.

For teachers: a cultural movement and musical genre originating in African American and Latino communities in the Bronx during the 1970s. It is characterized by four main elements: MCing (rapping), DJing, breakdancing, and graffiti art.

## Examples

- He listens to hip hop while he exercises at the gym.
- The festival celebrates the history of hip hop by inviting legendary DJs and young rappers to perform together.
- Scholars often analyze hip hop as a powerful form of social commentary that gives a voice to marginalized urban populations through complex lyrical structures and rhythmic innovation.

## Usage notes

- Often used as a modifier before other nouns, such as 'hip hop culture' or 'hip hop artist'.

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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.