jam session

[jam sesh-uhn]

noun

1. Music.

   1. a meeting of a group of musicians, especially jazz musicians, to improvise, experiment, or play for their own enjoyment.

   2. an impromptu musical performance, especially of jazz.

   3. a special performance by musicians, especially jazz musicians, who do not regularly play together.

2. an informal, freely collaborative meeting, conference, or discussion.

   The event was a laid-back jam session for creatives to get together and network.

jam session

noun

1. slang,  an unrehearsed or improvised jazz or rock performance

Word History and Origins

Origin of jam session¹

First recorded in 1930–35; perhaps jam ¹, or shortening of jamboree

Word History and Origins

Origin of jam session¹

C20: probably from _jam ¹

Example Sentences

“For me, every session is a jam session — like in the movies where the kids are in the garage and the mom is like, ‘Kids, be quiet!’”

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From the beginning, her style has always been instinctual; a freeform jam session where she sits at the piano or with her guitar and just lets her ideas flow out.

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I was recently in Puerto Rico and went to a plena jam session.

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The ride turns into a giant jam session.

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“On the Adamant” is like a jam session, too — a jumble of bright spots and tedious meanderings.

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