banjo

noun

ban·​jo ˈban-(ˌ)jō How to pronounce banjo (audio)
plural banjos also banjoes
: a musical instrument with a drumlike body, a fretted neck, and usually four or five strings which may be plucked or strummed
banjoist
ˈban-ˌjō-ist How to pronounce banjo (audio)
noun

Illustration of banjo

Illustration of banjo

Examples of banjo in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Matthew McConaughey shows off his vocal skills (and some hidden banjo talents) with his latest role in The Rivals of Amziah King. — Glenn Garner, Deadline, 8 Aug. 2026 His father played banjo and saxophone while his mother played piano, per Concord. — Raven Brunner, PEOPLE, 21 July 2026 However, in the four years since Show Me the Body’s last album, the banjo-slinging frontman’s perspective has changed dramatically. — Eli Enis, Pitchfork, 15 July 2026 Playing the banjo, the guitar and some mandolin as well as singing tenor vocals, Manion became the leader and chief humorist of the band. — Arkansas Online, 11 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for banjo

Word History

Etymology

probably of African origin; akin to Kimbundu mbanza, a similar instrument

First Known Use

1708, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of banjo was in 1708

Phrases Containing banjo

Rhymes for banjo

See All Rhymes for banjo

Browse Nearby Words

banjax
banjo
banjo clock
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Banjo.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/banjo. Accessed 11 Aug. 2026.

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Kids Definition

banjo

noun
ban·​jo ˈban-jō How to pronounce banjo (audio)
plural banjos also banjoes
: a musical instrument with a round body like a drum, a long fretted neck, and four or five strings
banjoist
-ˌjō-ist How to pronounce banjo (audio)
noun

More from Merriam-Webster on banjo

Nglish: Translation of banjo for Spanish Speakers

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about banjo

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