Definition

The study of music from different cultures and how it relates to their societies and traditions.

Example

She decided to pursue a degree in ethnomusicology to explore the music of indigenous peoples.

Conversation

Have you ever heard of ethnomusicology?

Yeah, I think it’s about studying music from different cultures, right?

Exactly! I'm really interested in how it explores the relationship between music and culture.

That sounds fascinating! I'd love to learn more about it.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Ethnomusicology is formed from "ethno-" (from Greek "ethnos", meaning people or nation) and "musicology" (from "music" derived from Greek "mousike", meaning art of the Muses, and "-logy" from Greek "logia", meaning study). The term refers to the study of music in its cultural context, focusing on the music of different peoples and nations.

Memory Tip

Think of 'ethno-' meaning 'people' and 'musicology' as the 'study of music' — this helps you remember that ethnomusicology is the study of music as it relates to different cultures.

Visually Confused Words