genre

[zhahn-ruh, zhahn-r^uh]

noun

plural

genres 

1. a class or category of artistic endeavor having a particular form, content, technique, or the like.

   the genre of epic poetry; the genre of symphonic music.

2. Fine Arts.

   1. paintings in which scenes of everyday life form the subject matter.

   2. a realistic style of painting using such subject matter.

3. genus; kind; sort; style.

adjective

1. Fine Arts.,  of or relating to genre.

2. of or relating to a distinctive literary type.

genre

/ ˈʒɑːnrə /

noun

1. 1. kind, category, or sort, esp of literary or artistic work

   2. ( as modifier )

      genre fiction

2. a category of painting in which domestic scenes or incidents from everyday life are depicted

genre

1. The kind or type of a work of art, from the French, meaning “kind” or “genus.” Literary genres include the novel and the sonnet. Musical genres include the concerto and the symphony. Film genres include Westerns and horror movies.

Word History and Origins

Origin of genre¹

First recorded in 1760–70; from French: “kind, sort”; gender ¹

Word History and Origins

Origin of genre¹

C19: from French, from Old French gendre; see _gender

Example Sentences

“This script is proof of his genre expertise — and love.”

From Los Angeles Times

Though rooted in the concept of genre — which typically means a selection of gritty thrillers, horror and action — Beyond Fest pushes well past such basic concepts.

From Los Angeles Times

Despite the mainstreaming of reggaetón, the genre has never fully shed this reputation — one that is based in racism and classism.

From Los Angeles Times

Though genre dominates television production almost to the point of saturation, it may, of course, be done poorly or well, may be obvious or subtle, stale or fresh.

From Los Angeles Times

Out of desperation she turned to Native American music, one of his favourite genres to relax to.

From BBC

Related Words

• brand 
• category 
• character 
• fashion 
• kind 
• style