theme song

American  

noun

1. a melody in an operetta or musical comedy so emphasized by repetition as to dominate the presentation.

2. a melody identifying or identified with a radio or television program, dance band, etc., usually played at the beginning of each program.

3. an expression, comment, or subject of conversation that a person or group uses habitually.

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theme song British  

noun

1. a melody used, esp in a film score, to set a mood, introduce a character, etc

2. another term for signature tune

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Etymology

Origin of theme song

An Americanism dating back to 1925–30

Example Sentences

At the same tournament, Pavarotti's 1972 recording was used as the theme song for the BBC's coverage.

From BBC • Apr. 16, 2026

After warming up to the theme song from “Top Gun,” he surrendered six hits and struck out just two batters.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 16, 2026

The boy said he was trying to think of happy things, at one point singing the "Thomas the Tank Engine" theme song to keep himself going.

From Barron's • Feb. 3, 2026

A typical night can seamlessly bounce from CupcakKe to Robyn, Chappell Roan to Beyoncé and Lady Gaga’s aughts banger “Telephone,” and also “Rivalry,” the show’s theme song by Peter Peter.

From Los Angeles Times • Jan. 18, 2026

When the creepy theme song comes on, I hear whimpering and then soft crying.

From "Free Lunch" by Rex Ogle