popular music originating in the West Indies; repetitive bass riffs and regular chords played on the off beat by a guitar
"The band played upbeat reggae, featuring its signature style of repetitive bass riffs and guitar strums on the off beat."
A form of music originating in Jamaica and associated with Rastafarianism, featuring a heavy bass line and percussive rhythm guitar on the offbeat, often with close vocal harmonies.
"The sound system played classic reggae that featured a deep bass line and skanking guitars while the singers delivered tight harmonies about their faith in Zion."
In plain English: Reggae is a type of music from Jamaica that has a relaxed rhythm and often talks about social issues, love, or spirituality.
"Many people enjoy listening to reggae music on their way home from work."
Usage: Reggae refers to Jamaican music characterized by its distinctive off-beat guitar rhythms and strong bass lines. It is often linked to themes of social justice and Rastafarian culture rather than being used as a general term for any slow-tempo song.
The word "reggae" comes from the Jamaican Creole term rege, which originally meant "rags" or a quarrel, and was first used in the 1960s to describe a specific dance. Its broader meaning as a musical genre became popular after the Maytals released their 1968 hit song "Do the Reggay."