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Definition of groove

groove

/ɡruːv/
groove

Plural:grooves
•
Adjective:groovy
•
Past Simple:grooved
•
Past Participle:grooved
•
Present Participle:grooving
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groove Lexical Profile

groove Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

A long, narrow cut or depression in a hard material, often used to guide motion or receive a corresponding piece.

Example

"The carpenter carefully carved a groove into the edge of the wooden panel to ensure a snug fit."


2

An established, smoothly functioning routine or habit.

Example

"After a few weeks of practice, the team finally settled into a productive groove."


3

A pronounced, enjoyable rhythmic pattern in popular music, jazz, or dance.

Example

"The band laid down a heavy funk groove that immediately got everyone on the dance floor."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• verb

1

To dance, play music, or move in a rhythmic and highly engaging manner.

Example

"The musicians began grooving together effortlessly during the late-night jam session."


2

To cut or form a long, narrow depression or channel in a material.

Example

"The ancient river naturally grooved its path through the solid bedrock over thousands of years."


3

To interact harmoniously or to thoroughly enjoy oneself in a relaxed setting (often used informally).

Example

"We spent the whole afternoon grooving to our favorite records and talking about life."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
View all antonyms for groove

• Rhymes for groove

Word Origin & Etymology

Early 15th century, originally meaning a mining shaft or pit, derived from Middle Dutch 'groeve' (furrow, ditch). The musical sense of a rhythmic pattern emerged in the 1930s jazz scene.

Usage Trend

Historical frequency of usage in published text.

180019102020

Cite this Entry


Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Groove. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Oct 17, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/groove
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