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Definition of banjo

banjo

/ˈbæn.dʒoʊ/
ban · jo
Plural:banjos
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banjo Lexical Profile

banjo Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

A stringed musical instrument with a long, fretted neck and a circular hollow body covered with a tight, drum-like membrane, typically played by plucking or strumming.

Example

"The bluegrass band's distinctive sound was driven by the fast, rhythmic plucking of the banjo."

• Nearby Words

banister
banistered
banjax
banjo
banjoist
banjul
bank

Word Origin & Etymology

Originated in the 18th century from Caribbean Creole or African languages, likely related to the Kimbundu word 'mbanza' or the Mandinka word 'bangoe' (both referring to stringed instruments), brought to the Americas by enslaved Africans.

Usage Trend

Historical frequency of usage in published text.

180019102020
Data source: Google Books Ngram Viewer

Cite this Entry

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