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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.

That more positive mood music, and the thunderous applause in this chamber, will have encouraged the UK delegation that a corner could be turned.

From BBC • Apr. 28, 2026

So far, the operation to deploy royal stardust to improve the mood music between the nations appears to be working.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 28, 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

Right now the mood music around AI is all about the problems it will cause for the market.

From Barron's • Feb. 13, 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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