What does mashup mean?
A mashup is a creative combination of elements taken from different sources. The term is most often used for music, where a song may combine vocals or instrumental passages from separate recordings, but it can also refer to videos, images, presentations, or other media. A mashup is not merely a mixture that lacks a clear identity: it usually presents the combined elements as a single new work. The word has an informal, playful, and inventive tone, often suggesting surprise, energy, or experimentation. It is especially common in discussions of contemporary music, online video, and remix culture. Because the expression comes from the idea of mashing or blending things together, it conveys both physical combination and creative transformation.
nounA mashup is a combination of elements from different sources, often music, images, or other media, brought together to form a new work or presentation.
- A combination of elements from different sources, especially music, images, or other media.
- A work created by combining such elements.
"The artist created an energetic mashup of traditional folk songs and electronic dance music."
"The radio station played a mashup of classical music and hip-hop."
"Her presentation was a mashup of slides, video clips, and live narration."
The usual plural form is mashups, with the final s added to the whole compound.
"The producer released several mashups of popular songs."
A mashup turns separate ingredients into something new: in music, it can blend a classical composition with a modern track.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does mashup come from?
The word combines the older verb mash, meaning to crush or combine into a soft mixture, with the particle up, which can suggest intensifying or completing a process. It developed in the mid-20th century in connection with the blending of musical or media elements, although the compound later became common for many kinds of artistic combinations. Its meaning follows the broader development of remixing and digital media culture.
Related word forms
How mashup is actually used
The term is informal and contemporary, but it is widely used in media and creative contexts. It usually implies a deliberate combination that may preserve recognizable elements from each source.
Easily confused with mashup
A mashup combines elements from different sources into one work, whereas a matchup sets two competitors or alternatives against each other.