English Reference
noun · verb

rap

n. · v.
US /ˈɹæp/ UK /ɹˈæp/ rap UK spelling rap's, rap's, rapped

  1. 01 A2 Elementary Music

    n.a style of popular music where the words are spoken rhythmically rather than sung.

    n.a genre of popular music characterized by rhythmic and rhyming speech that is chanted rather than sung.

    Simple

    He listens to a lot of rap while he is working out at the gym.

    In context

    The evolution of rap from a local street culture to a global commercial powerhouse has redefined the modern music industry.

    hip hop
  2. 02 B1 Intermediate

    n.a quick, sharp hit on a hard surface, like a door.

    n.a quick, sharp blow or knock, typically delivered with the knuckles or a hard object.

    Simple

    I heard a loud rap at the door in the middle of the night.

    In context

    A sharp rap on the windowpane startled the librarian, who had been lost in a thick volume of history.

  3. 03 C1 Advanced InformalSlang Law

    n.the blame or punishment for a crime or a mistake.

    n.the responsibility or punishment for a crime; often used in the phrase 'take the rap'.

    Simple

    He didn't want to take the rap for something his brother did.

    In context

    The junior accountant was forced to take the rap for the missing funds, despite having no access to the primary accounts.

  4. 04 B2 Upper Intermediate Informal

    n.a casual or informal conversation.

    n.an informal or casual conversation; often used to describe a relaxed exchange of ideas.

    Simple

    We had a long rap about our plans for the summer.

    In context

    After the formal presentation, the team sat down for a casual rap to iron out the remaining logistical details.

  5. 05 A2 Elementary Music

    v.to speak the words of a song rhythmically in the style of rap music.

    v.to perform rhythmic, rhyming speech over a beat; functions as both a transitive and intransitive verb.

    Simple

    She can rap really fast and never misses a beat.

    In context

    The artist began to rap about social injustice, captivating the audience with his intricate rhyme schemes and powerful delivery.

  6. 06 B1 Intermediate

    v.to hit a surface quickly and sharply.

    v.to strike a surface with a quick, sharp blow, especially to attract attention.

    Simple

    He rapped his knuckles against the table to get everyone's attention.

    In context

    The chairman rapped his gavel on the wooden block, signaling the commencement of the disciplinary hearing.

Usage rap lyrics

This entry
Level A2 · Elementary
Frequency Common
Updated