background music

American  

noun

1. music, often recorded, intended to provide a soothing background, usually played over loudspeaker systems in public places, as railway stations or restaurants.

2. music composed specifically to accompany and heighten the mood of a visual production, as a movie.

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Etymology

Origin of background music

First recorded in 1925–30

Example Sentences

Not the mellow, easy-listening variety that serves as background music in elevators and waiting rooms.

From Los Angeles Times • Dec. 16, 2025

This is part of the background music in America: Americans who aren’t unemployed and do have a house are afraid that in the next few years they could lose their job, their security.

From The Wall Street Journal • Dec. 11, 2025

Included in Russia’s newly privatized health care system were private clinics for the ultra-wealthy offering hotel-like amenities, including private rooms, tea and soft background music.

From Salon • Dec. 3, 2025

Set the tone by playing soft background music that complements the setting of your outdoor dinner party.

From Seattle Times • Jun. 4, 2024

It was sheltered, and quite big enough, and the radio could provide nice background music.

From "The Cricket in Times Square" by George Selden