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Definition of bandwagon

bandwagon

/ˈbændˌwæɡ.ən/
band · wag · on
Plural:bandwagons
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bandwagon Lexical Profile

bandwagon Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

A popular activity, cause, or movement that is currently fashionable or gaining momentum, attracting people who wish to be associated with success.

Example

"Several competing technology companies quickly jumped on the artificial intelligence bandwagon after seeing the initial product's success."

2

A large, ornate wagon used for carrying a musical band in a circus parade, carnival, or political procession.

Example

"The brightly painted circus bandwagon was pulled down Main Street by a team of six horses."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for bandwagon

• Nearby Words

bandsman
bandstand
bandung
bandwagon
bandwidth
bandy
bandy-bandy

Word Origin & Etymology

Coined in mid-19th-century American English from 'band' and 'wagon', originally referring to the ornate circus wagon carrying musicians at the head of a parade. The figurative phrase 'jump on the bandwagon' emerged during late-19th-century US political campaigns, when candidates invited supporters to ride along on the musical wagon to signal momentum and probable victory.

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Bandwagon. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/bandwagon
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