Meaning

(uncountable, music) Any form of guitar-driven alternative rock that is particularly or notably emotional; a broadly encompassing genre of rock music characterized by expressive, often confessional lyrics..

Definitions by Sense

1. (uncountable, music) Any form of guitar-driven alternative rock that is particularly or notably emotional; a broadly encompassing genre of rock music characterized by expressive, often confessional lyrics.
2. (countable) An individual presenting as such.
3. Associated with youth subcultures which are associated with the above-mentioned musical genre(s) and with emotional sensitivity.
4. (informal, loosely, often derogatory) Emotional, sensitive, or contemplative; regardless of musical preference or subcultural affiliation.
5. (informal, loosely, by extension) Depressed.
6. (fashion, aesthetic) Exhibiting a fashion or visual aesthetic associated with the subculture; a presentation deliberately or unintentionally incorporating dark clothing, asymmetrical haircuts covering one eye, studded accessories, and often borrowing elements from gothic fashion, Burtonesque macabre, or brightly colored scene or geek aesthetics.

Example Sentences

The one thing everyone agrees on is that they've never encountered a band that claimed to be emo.

Trevor looks kind of emo, rail thin, dark hair, guyliner, wears black all the time.

Criticism drapes a black velvet cape across the puddle that interrupts the path to change, to be emo about it.

Hot Topic is historically recognized as the go-to mall emo store, particularly during the 2000s, serving as a primary hub for alternative, scene, and punk fashion, music merch, and accessories like studded belts.

Word Forms

• emos
• more emo
• most emo

Related Words

When Should You Use Emo?

Use emo when its meaning, tone and grammar fit the full sentence. A synonym is not always a direct replacement.

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