What does medley mean?
A medley is a mixture or combination of distinct elements, most commonly a sequence of musical pieces joined into one continuous performance. The word is also used figuratively for a varied collection of people, ideas, styles, flavours, or influences: a programme may contain a medley of comedy and music, while a dish can be described as a medley of flavours. The term generally has a positive or lively connotation, suggesting that different elements combine successfully rather than remaining disconnected. It is especially useful when describing music that draws together several recognizable songs or sections, but its figurative applications are broad. Medley is related to mêlée and other words associated with mixing, while melody refers to one tune rather than a combination of several.
nounA mixture of different things, especially a collection of short musical pieces performed as one continuous composition. Figuratively, it refers to a varied collection of people, styles, flavours, or ideas.
- A musical composition or performance combining several distinct songs or sections.
- A mixture or varied collection of different things, ideas, styles, or people.
"The concert closed with a lively medley of folk songs and modern pop arrangements."
"The orchestra performed a medley of seasonal favourites."
"Her latest album is a medley of jazz, folk, and electronic music."
The regular plural is formed by adding -s.
"The album contains several lively medleys of traditional songs."
A medley takes separate pieces and makes them work together as one irresistible whole.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does medley come from?
English borrowed the word from Anglo-French or Old French forms meaning “a mixture” or “mixing.” It was used in Middle English for a blending of things, and the specifically musical sense developed during the early modern period. The word belongs to a wider family associated with mixing, including mêlée, mix, and miscellaneous.
How medley is actually used
The musical sense is well established and common. The broader figurative sense is generally neutral and often suggests variety, abundance, or an engaging mixture.
Easily confused with medley
A medley combines several distinct songs or musical sections, whereas a melody is a single sequence of notes that forms one tune.