# rapper

/ˈɹæpɝ/ (US) · /ɹˈæpɐ/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/rapper
Updated: 2026-06-20

## Senses

### 1. musical performer

noun · CEFR A2

a person who performs rap music by speaking rhythmically over a beat.

For teachers: a musical artist who performs rap, characterized by the rhythmic delivery of rhymes and wordplay over a backing track.

- The rapper performed his new song to a huge crowd at the festival.
- The underground rapper gained national attention after his freestyle video went viral on social media platforms.

### 2. a door knocker

noun · CEFR C2 · Archaic

a person or a metal tool used for knocking on a door.

For teachers: an agent or instrument that raps or knocks, specifically a door knocker.

- He used the heavy iron rapper to wake the people inside the house.
- The ancient manor featured a bronze rapper shaped like a lion's head, though most modern visitors preferred the electric bell.

### 3. mining signal device

noun · CEFR C2 · Technical · British English

a device used in old mines to send signals by making a knocking sound.

For teachers: a mechanical or electric signalling apparatus used in coal mines to communicate with the engine house.

- The miners used the rapper to tell the operator they were ready to come up.
- The onsetter operated the rapper to signal the winding engineman that the cage was secure for ascent.

## Examples

- The rapper performed his new song on stage.
- After his video went viral online, the young rapper signed a major contract with a famous record label.
- While many associate the genre with modern production, this rapper often collaborates with live jazz bands to create a more organic and improvisational 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.