# ska

/ˈskɑ/ (US) · /skˈɑː/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/ska
Updated: 2026-05-09

## Definition

a style of fast dance music from Jamaica that started in the 1950s. It sounds like a mix of jazz and rhythm and blues, and it often uses trumpets and saxophones.

For teachers: a genre of popular music originating in Jamaica in the late 1950s, characterized by a walking bassline accented with rhythms on the upbeat. Precursor to rocksteady and reggae, often featuring brass instruments and a fast tempo.

## Examples

- The band plays fast ska music that makes everyone dance.
- Before reggae became famous worldwide, ska was the dominant sound in the dance halls of Kingston.

## Usage notes

- Usually functions as an uncountable noun when referring to the genre, though it can act as a modifier in phrases like 'ska band'.

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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.