Rap: meaning, definitions and examples

Although this word is the same as the first entry, it can also be used informally to refer to having a conversation or discussion, especially if it's serious or heartfelt.

• They had a late-night rap about their future plans.
• We need to rap about the upcoming project deadlines.

'Hip-hop' refers to the broader culture that includes rap music, breakdancing, graffiti art, and DJing. It is used to describe the overall movement, lifestyle, and artistic expressions that originated in the African American communities.

• The hip-hop culture has had a significant influence on fashion.
• He grew up immersed in hip-hop, learning to breakdance and DJ.

'MCing' (Master of Ceremonies) focuses on the performance aspect, where an individual raps, entertains, and interacts with an audience. It is more specific to live performances or hosting events.

• The MCing at the concert was incredible; he got the crowd hyped up.
• She's known for her MCing skills at local hip-hop battles.

'Rhyming' refers to the act of creating poetry or lyrics with corresponding sounds at the end of each line. It’s focused on the technical aspect of crafting words that sound alike.

• His rhyming skills are top-notch; every verse is perfectly crafted.
• She's known for her complex rhyming patterns in her songs.

Commonly used in the context of hip-hop music when an artist delivers rhythmic and rhyming speech. It can also mean to talk or chat informally.

• He loves to rap about social issues
• They were rapping about the latest news at the café

Used when referring to participating in a public event such as a concert, play, or some other type of artistic presentation.

• She will perform at the music festival this weekend
• The magician performed an amazing trick

Used when referring to the writing or speaking of words that have the same ending sound, often found in poetry and songs.

• Kids love songs that rhyme
• Can you think of any words that rhyme with 'cat'?

In hip-hop slang, it means to deliver rhymes or rap, often with great skill and intensity. It can have a slightly informal or street connotation.

• He loves to spit fire on the mic
• The MC spit verses that energized the crowd