mood music

American  

noun

1. music comprised chiefly of popular songs in lush orchestral arrangements, intended to provide a relaxing, soothing atmosphere.

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mood music British  

noun

1. recorded music played in the background in a place to establish a mood of relaxation, calm, etc

2. a prevailing atmosphere or feeling

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Etymology

Origin of mood music

First recorded in 1935–40

Example Sentences

So far, the operation to deploy royal stardust to improve the mood music between the nations appears to be working.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 28, 2026

That more positive mood music, and the thunderous applause in this chamber, will have encouraged the UK delegation that a corner could be turned.

From BBC • Apr. 28, 2026

“The lighting and mood music makes it easier to focus on the internal experience than other classes I’ve taken,” she said.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 27, 2026

Chuck in a strong earnings season, with average S&P 500 profit growth projected at 13%, and renewed confidence in artificial intelligence after OpenAI’s latest mega funding round External link and the mood music seems good.

From Barron's • Apr. 1, 2026

Normally Fang would come over and my dad would throw on some mood music and my mom would whip up the eggnog and, while she was at it, a couple presents for my friend.

From "Anthem of a Reluctant Prophet" by Joanne Proulx