pops

American

[pops] / pɒps /

adjective

of or relating to a symphony orchestra specializing in popular or light classical music.

Thursday is pops night on the concert series.

noun

(used with a singular verb) Pops, a symphony orchestra specializing in popular and light classical music.

When you're in Boston be sure to hear the Pops.

Etymology

Origin of pops

First recorded in 1955–60; see origin at pop ²

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Pops of spring color were a welcome sight on the red carpet.

From Barron's • Mar. 15, 2026

It is now seeing customers return for exclusive toys like Statue of Liberty Funko Pops, as well as experiences.

From The Wall Street Journal • Dec. 21, 2025

On Dec. 1, after a $34-million renovation, the city’s cultural crown jewel reopened with a concert featuring superstar Cynthia Erivo at the height of her powers, backed by a jubilant Palm Springs Pops Orchestra.

From Los Angeles Times • Dec. 9, 2025

But Ms Brown said despite the success of the song, they were not allowed to go on Top of the Pops.

From BBC • Nov. 1, 2025

It’s a way for us to try to stump wise old Pops, which is no fun for anyone, and so we all say no.

From "All The Bright Places" by Jennifer Niven

Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023