banjo

noun

ban·​jo ˈban-(ˌ)jō How to pronounce banjo (audio)
plural banjos also banjoes
: a musical instrument with a drumlike body, a fretted neck, and usually four or five strings which may be plucked or strummed
banjoist noun

Illustration of banjo

Illustration of banjo

Examples of banjo 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.
The banja or banjo was originally an African instrument that was made and played by enslaved blacks on Southern plantations. Ronald E. Scott, New York Daily News, 1 Feb. 2025 The comedian explained that Charlie enjoys gardening, playing the banjo and doing woodwork. Katie Mannion, People.com, 30 Jan. 2025 Singer, guitarist, and mandolin player Russell Moore, also of the bluegrass band IIIrd Tyme Out, is now part of the ensemble along with its other longtime members — dobro player Jerry Douglas, bassist Barry Bales, and guitarist and banjo player Ron Block. David Browne, Rolling Stone, 29 Jan. 2025 The track features Meyer on lead vocals and banjo, Pitney on guitar and harmony, as well as instrumental work from Nate Burie (mandolin), Jenee Fleenor (fiddle) and Blake Pitney (bass). Jessica Nicholson, Billboard, 27 Jan. 2025 See all Example Sentences for banjo 

Word History

Etymology

probably of African origin; akin to Kimbundu mbanza, a similar instrument

First Known Use

1708, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of banjo was in 1708

Dictionary Entries Near banjo

Cite this Entry

“Banjo.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/banjo. Accessed 8 Feb. 2025.

Kids Definition

banjo

noun
ban·​jo ˈban-jō How to pronounce banjo (audio)
plural banjos also banjoes
: a musical instrument with a round body like a drum, a long fretted neck, and four or five strings
banjoist noun

More from Merriam-Webster on banjo

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