Blues
/bluːz/
Definitions
2 meaningsA type of music characterized by a slow tempo, melancholy mood, and often featuring a call-and-response vocal style.
/bluːz/
A genre of music
The blues singer's voice was filled with emotion.
💡 Simply: Sad music.
More Examples
That band plays a soulful kind of blues.
How It's Used
"She loves listening to the blues on rainy days."
A state of sadness or depression.
/bluːz/
A feeling of sadness or depression
The blues were getting to her; she needed a break.
💡 Simply: Feeling sad.
More Examples
He had a case of the blues after failing the exam.
How It's Used
"He's got the blues after losing his job."
Idioms & expressions
Sing the blues
To complain about one's troubles or misfortunes.
"She was singing the blues about her relationship."
Originating in the African American community of the southern United States in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the term 'blues' evolved from the expression of sadness and hardship through music. It's related to the feeling of 'blue' denoting sadness.
The term 'blues' in its musical context emerged from the African American experience of hardship and oppression, evolving into a distinct and influential musical genre.
Memory tip
Think of the color blue associated with sadness.
Word Origin
"Originally referring to the color blue, associated with sadness."