doo-wop

noun

ˈdü-ˌwäp How to pronounce doo-wop (audio)
: a vocal style of rock and roll characterized by the a cappella singing of nonsense syllables in rhythmical support of the melody

Examples of doo-wop 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.
Where the story diverges is the way New Edition combined hip-hop, R&B, and old-school doo-wop to create new jack swing. — Devon Ivie, Vulture, 12 Mar. 2026 The chorus leaves the beach for the boardwalk, its cocky doo-wop inflections presenting loneliness less as an inner weakness and more as a loyalty test. — Reed Jackson, SPIN, 16 Mar. 2026 Dangerous Woman was almost called Moonlight, after the doo-wop inspired ballad that opens the album. — Larisha Paul, Rolling Stone, 20 May 2026 The pair eventually recruited their children to take part in the act, specializing in doo-wop and other '50s music. — Alex Gurley, PEOPLE, 16 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for doo-wop

Word History

Etymology

from nonsense syllables typical of the style

First Known Use

1961, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of doo-wop was in 1961

Rhymes for doo-wop

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Browse Nearby Words

do-over
doo-wop
doozy
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Doo-wop.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/doo-wop. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on doo-wop

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about doo-wop

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