emo

plural emos

1. Any form of guitar-driven alternative rock that is particularly or notably emotional; a broadly encompassing genre of rock music characterized by expressive, often confessional lyrics.
   1. countableuncountableoriginallyentertainmentA subgenre of late 1980s hardcore punk originating in Washington D.C., characterized by intense, highly emotional performances, dynamic shifts, and a departure from traditional punk song structures (also emocore).First known use late 1990s-current
   2. broadlycountableuncountableentertainmentA 1990s indie rock movement characterized by complex guitar work (often borrowing from math rock), dynamic shifts, arpeggiated melodies, and deeply introspective lyrics; commonly referred to as Midwest emo.First known use late 1990s-current

      Synonyms: Midwest emo

   3. countableuncountableentertainmentA commercially successful 2000s alternative rock and pop-punk movement characterized by theatricality, melancholic, or romantically frustrated themes, and highly polished production.First known use late 1990s-current

      Synonyms: emo pop

   4. countableuncountablederivativeentertainmentElectronic-infused subgenres incorporating aggressive, satirical, or hedonistic themes layered over post-hardcore or pop-punk foundations (e.g., crunkcore, neon pop-punk).First known use late 1990s-current
2. An individual presenting as such, intentionally or otherwise.
   1. countableA person associated with a fashion or stereotype of that style of rock.First known use early 1990s
   2. countableuncountableA participant in the heavily aestheticized 2000s and 2010s subculture.First known use early 1990s
   3. countable(by extension) A typically young individual whose outward persona is characterized by introspection, sensitivity, melancholy, or angst; considered to be overly emotional or who is associated with the emo subculture.First known use 2000s
   4. broadlycountablederogatorySometimes used pejoratively to imply inauthenticity (poser) or used ironically to denote exaggerated teenage rebellion.

comparative more emo · superlative most emo

1. Associated with youth subcultures which are associated with the above-mentioned musical genre(s) and with emotional sensitivity.

   Trevor looks kind of emo, rail thin, dark hair, guyliner, wears black all the time.

   2012, Megan Bostic, Never Eighteen

   1 more example

   The one thing everyone agrees on is that they've never encountered a band that claimed to be emo.

   2007, James A. Reinking, Robert Von Der Osten, Strategies for successful writing

2. broadlyderogatoryinformaloftenEmotional, sensitive, or contemplative; regardless of musical preference or subcultural affiliation.
3. broadlyinformalDepressed.

   Criticism drapes a black velvet cape across the puddle that interrupts the path to change, to be emo about it.

   2008, Vanity Fair, number 578

4. aestheticfashionExhibiting a fashion or visual aesthetic associated with the subculture; a presentation deliberately or unintentionally incorporating dark clothing, asymmetrical haircuts covering one eye, studded accessories, and often borrowing elements from gothic fashion, Burtonesque macabre, or brightly colored scene or geek aesthetics.

   Hot Topic is historically recognized as the go-to mall emo store, particularly during the 2000s, serving as a primary hub for alternative, scene, and punk fashion, music merch, and accessories like studded belts.

1. A village in Ireland.

1. A township in Ontario.