alternative rock

noun

: alternative music that blends elements of conventional rock with influences from other musical styles (such as punk rock, hard rock, hip-hop, or folk)

Examples of alternative rock in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Over the years, his music evolved, marrying the genres of alternative rock, hip-hop and electro-pop with his cheeky flair. — Maria Sherman, Chicago Tribune, 22 June 2026 The style experienced a revival in the '90s thanks to grunge and alternative rock artists such as Courtney Love and Kat Bjelland. — Edward Segarra, USA Today, 11 May 2026 Debuting today across all Eros channels are the first two artists – alternative rock singer Jordan and Bollywood pop artist Tanu, with the latter aimed at Gen Z audiences. — Liz Shackleton, Deadline, 23 June 2026 The indie film stars Leah Fay Goldstein and Peter Dreimanis, real-life partners and the lead singers of Canadian alternative rock band July Talk. — Ed Meza, Variety, 19 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for alternative rock

Word History

First Known Use

1975, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of alternative rock was in 1975

Rhymes for alternative rock

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Browse Nearby Words

alternative pop
alternative rock
alternative school
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Cite this Entry

“Alternative rock.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/alternative%20rock. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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