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mood music

American  

noun

  1. music comprised chiefly of popular songs in lush orchestral arrangements, intended to provide a relaxing, soothing atmosphere.


mood music British  

noun

  1. recorded music played in the background in a place to establish a mood of relaxation, calm, etc

  2. a prevailing atmosphere or feeling

"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 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.

See Examples For:

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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