Bollywood

American

[bol-ee-wood] / ˈbɒl iˌwʊd /

noun

the motion-picture industry of India, based in Bombay.

Bollywood British

/ ˈbɒlɪˌwʊd /

noun

informal
1. the Indian film industry
2. ( as modifier )
  
  a Bollywood star

"Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged" 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012

Etymology

Origin of Bollywood

Blend of Bombay and Hollywood

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.

A major Indian film workers' union has withdrawn its appeal asking members not to work with Bollywood actor Ranveer Singh after his alleged abrupt exit from an upcoming film.

From BBC • Jun. 4, 2026

Bollywood has long been known for punishing schedules, with shifts often stretching from 12 to 18 hours and, at times, continuing for more than a day during intensive shoots.

From Barron's • Jun. 2, 2026

For many, the recent debate marks a broader shift in Bollywood, with younger professionals and established stars alike beginning to challenge the long-standing norms.

From Barron's • Jun. 2, 2026

NEW DELHI—At a splashy celebration in the Indian capital featuring Bollywood dance numbers and special guest U.S.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 25, 2026

I'm a die-hard classic rock 'n' roll fan and love Bollywood music, of course.

From "You Bring the Distant Near" by Mitali Perkins

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