Rock: meaning, definitions and examples

The term 'rock' is often used in a general sense to describe a broad category of popular music that originated in the 1950s and 1960s. It can also refer to a single song or band that falls under this genre.

• The Beatles are one of the most famous rock bands in history.
• I love listening to rock when I'm driving.

'Rock and roll' refers to the early style of rock music that originated in the 1950s, featuring a strong beat, simple melodies, and often focusing on themes of youth rebellion.

• Elvis Presley is often called the King of Rock and Roll.
• They played some old school rock and roll at the diner.

The term 'rock music' can be used interchangeably with 'rock' to describe the overall genre. It encompasses all styles and forms of rock, from its origins to contemporary variations.

• I'm a huge fan of rock music, especially from the '70s and '80s.
• Rock music will never go out of style.

The phrase 'hard rock' describes a subgenre of rock music that is characterized by aggressive vocals, distorted guitars, and strong rhythms. It is often louder and more intense than traditional rock.

• Led Zeppelin is a legendary hard rock band.
• I'm in the mood for some hard rock; let's put on AC/DC.

Used to refer to large pieces of solid mineral material typically found in nature, often durable and solid. Can also describe different types of music or solid, dependable people.

• She threw a rock into the river.
• He loves listening to rock music.
• She's the rock of the family.

Used to refer to hard, solid, and small pieces of mineral material, often used in construction, jewelry, or to describe small individual rocks.

• They built a house out of stone.
• She wore a beautiful stone necklace.
• He skipped a stone across the pond.

Used to describe naturally occurring substances with a definite chemical composition, often used in geology, biology, and health contexts.

• The geologist examined the mineral.
• Minerals like calcium and magnesium are important for health.

Used to describe the arrangement or pattern of something that is formed over time, often used in geology or when referring to groups of people or objects.

• The tour guide explained the rock formation.
• The dancers moved into a new formation.

Same as the first 'rock', meaning a back and forth movement.

• The chair rocked back and forth.

Denotes a broader arc or circular motion, often implying more energy or force behind the movement.

• The children loved to swing at the playground.
• She swung her arm to throw the ball.

Used to describe a gentle, often rhythmic movement from side to side, often influenced by an external force like wind or emotion.

• The trees swayed in the breeze.
• He swayed to the music.

A general term for changing position or place. It can be applied to objects, people, or ideas.

• Please move your car out of the driveway.
• She decided to move to a new city.