alterna-rock

noun

al·​ter·​na-rock ȯl-ˈtər-nə-ˌräk 

al-

: alternative rock

… the music is melodic, experimental alterna-rock with some danceable touches.

—Houston Chronicle, 6 Jan. 2010

alterna-rock tunes

… a trio of unrepentant country fans whose alterna-rock approach doesn't imply ironic slacker detachment so much as a refusal to play by anybody's rules.

—Mark Lepage, The Gazette (Montreal, Quebec), 19 Feb. 1994

Word History

Etymology

short for alternative rock

First Known Use

1993, in the meaning defined above

The Ultimate Dictionary Awaits

Expand your vocabulary and dive deeper into language with Merriam-Webster Unabridged.

1. Expanded definitions
2. Detailed etymologies
3. Advanced search tools
4. All ad-free

Discover what makes Merriam-Webster Unabridged the essential choice for true word lovers.

Start Your Free Trial Now