pops

American

[pops] / pɒps /

adjective

of or relating to a symphony orchestra specializing in popular or light classical music.

Thursday is pops night on the concert series.

noun

(used with a singular verb) Pops, a symphony orchestra specializing in popular and light classical music.

When you're in Boston be sure to hear the Pops.

Etymology

Origin of pops

First recorded in 1955–60; see origin at pop ²

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.

"He usually pops down and has a look, has a burger and brings the kids," said Tom.

From BBC • May 13, 2026

She pops in and out of my life, but it’s always a pleasure to see her.

From Salon • May 10, 2026

But he cautioned that “the one risk that pops out from this analysis is the possibility that the Fed is behind the curve on inflation.”

From MarketWatch • May 4, 2026

What began as a one-off backyard show quickly evolved into a monthly live event series that pops up in local warehouses, art galleries and cocktail bars.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 29, 2026

“Ooh! Let’s have freeze pops while we sit in the cool tub,” Naomi shouts.

From "Zara’s Rules for Record-Breaking Fun" by Hena Khan

Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023