Groove

Podcast 1 · Introduction

Groove

A documentary-style narration: origin, meaning, and feel.

Part of speech

noun and verb

Pronunciation

groov  /ɡruːv/

Definition

As a noun: a long narrow channel or cut in a surface; a rhythmic musical pattern that makes people want to move; a comfortable routine or established way of doing things. As a verb: to cut a groove in; (informal) to enjoy oneself, to dance to music.

Plain meaning

A groove is the channel cut into a surface — like the spiral groove on a vinyl record. Informally, a groove is the rhythmic feeling in music that makes you want to move, or the comfortable routine of doing something well.

Register

Neutral to informal. The physical channel sense is neutral and technical. The musical groove sense is informal and enthusiastic. Groovy is now slightly dated or ironic in standard British English, though it circulates in informal contexts with knowing humour.