# vamp

/ˈvæmp/ (US) · /vˈæmp/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/vamp
Updated: 2026-05-20

## Definition

a short, catchy part of a song that repeats to make it sound exciting. It is often used in pop or rock music to build up the energy before the main part of the song.

For teachers: a short, repetitive musical passage or section designed to create a sense of anticipation or excitement. Common in popular and rock music to bridge the gap between the intro and the main verse.

## Examples

- The song has a great vamp that gets you moving.
- The band spent several minutes on stage playing a hypnotic vamp before finally launching into the first verse.
- While the lyrics are relatively simple, the instrumental vamp provides a rhythmic foundation that allows the lead vocalist to experiment with vocal improvisation.

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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.