mood music
Americannoun
noun
-
recorded music played in the background in a place to establish a mood of relaxation, calm, etc
-
a prevailing atmosphere or feeling
Etymology
Origin of mood music
First recorded in 1935–40
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.
Perhaps, but it was certainly in contrast to the mood music just a few hours before kick-off.
From BBC ● Oct. 2, 2026
Investors misread the mood music on U.S.-Canadian trade talks, in a big way.
From MarketWatch ● Aug. 25, 2026
“The lighting and mood music makes it easier to focus on the internal experience than other classes I’ve taken,” she said.
From Los Angeles Times ● Apr. 27, 2026
“The mood music of markets is one of concern, but one that sees progress toward a resolution,” ING’s Chris Turner said in a note.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Apr. 20, 2026
Normally Fang would come over and my dad would throw on some mood music and my mom would whip up the eggnog and, while she was at it, a couple presents for my friend.
From "Anthem of a Reluctant Prophet" by Joanne Proulx
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Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.