punk rock

noun

1. a type of rock-'n'-roll, reaching its peak in the late 1970s and characterized by loud, insistent music and abusive or violent protest lyrics, and whose performers and followers are distinguished by extremes of dress and socially defiant behavior.

punk rock

noun

1. Sometimes shortened to: punk. a fast abrasive style of rock music of the late 1970s, characterized by aggressive or offensive lyrics and performance

Other Word Forms

• punk rocker noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of punk rock¹

First recorded in 1970–75

Example Sentences

As a guitarist, Brian Baker has punk rock and hardcore credentials that are unparalleled.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

St. Thomas says this is the moment she discovered her passion for photography, and over the next few decades, her life became consumed by punk rock shows and film rolls.

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Riot Women tells the tale of five menopausal women who form a punk rock band to take part in a local talent contest.

Read more on BBC

“I’ve always felt a little bit punk rock, and knowing where your food is coming from—that’s an act of rebellion.”

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

If you’re a Gen Xer who immersed yourself in punk rock or listened to college radio, The Waterboys will be a familiar name, if they don’t make your heart sing with fond nostalgia.

Read more on Salon