Definition

1. Proper noun:
   • A person's name: Thelonious Monk was an American jazz pianist and composer. He is widely recognized as one of the most important and influential figures in the history of jazz, particularly as a founder of the bebop style. His full name was Thelonious Sphere Monk.

Usage Examples

• Proper noun:
  • Thelonious Monk composed the jazz standard "'Round Midnight."
  • Many musicians study the unique harmonies of Thelonious Monk.
  • The festival featured a tribute to Thelonious Monk.

Advanced Usage

• Referring to his style or influence: The name can be used metonymically to refer to his distinctive musical style or artistic legacy.
  • Her playing has a strong touch of Thelonious Monk in its rhythmic complexity.

Variants and Related Words

• Monkish (adj): Sometimes used informally to describe something reminiscent of Thelonious Monk's style (e.g., ). This is not a standard dictionary word but a creative usage in jazz contexts.

Synonyms

• Jazz innovator
• Bebop pioneer
• Pianist-composer

Related Phrases

• Play Monk: A phrase used among musicians meaning to perform music composed by or in the style of Thelonious Monk.
  • The quartet will play Monk for the second set.

Noun

1. United States jazz pianist who was one of the founders of the bebop style (1917-1982)