n [ U ]
a style of popular music with a strong beat to which words are spoken rather than sung. It first became popular in the early 1980s and well-known performers include Snoop (Doggy) Dogg , 50 Cent , the Beastie Boys and Eminem . There are many styles of rap and it has had important influence on other types of popular music. Some bands combine aspects of jazz and rap music while others, such as the Red Hot Chili Peppers mix it with rock and funk . It is also important to the music of many nu metal bands. One style of the music, gansta rap , is often criticized for its violent songs.
See also hip hop .
► rap v [I] ( -pp- )
to perform rap music or speak in the style of rap.