big band

NOUN

a large dance band

Synonyms

STRONGEST

jazz band

WEAK

dance orchestra swing band

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

The big band music stopped, and for a few seconds a hush fell over the guests.

From Barron's • Apr. 26, 2026

As Simon observed years later, the V-Discs “mark the high watermark of the big band years.”

From The Wall Street Journal • Jan. 26, 2026

But The Clearing has a clarity and purpose that suggests they're finally OK with the idea of being a chart-topping, festival-headlining "big band".

From BBC • Oct. 10, 2025

The courtly gentleman guided women around the floor to big band standards with all the aplomb of teenage boys waltzing at a cotillion dance they’ve been forced to attend by their parents.

From Salon • Jul. 4, 2025

Mother allowed us to go to the big band dances in the crowded city auditorium.

From "I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings" by Maya Angelou