What does ep mean in music Meaning and Definition

Pronunciation

/ˈiːpiː/

Part of Speech

Noun

Definition

An extended play record, a musical recording that contains more music than a single, but less than a full-length album.

Examples

The band released an EP featuring four new tracks.
Her debut EP was a critical success.

Synonyms

Mini-album
Extended single

Antonyms

Full-length album
Single

Additional Information

EPs are often used by artists to release new music between full-length albums, or to experiment with different sounds and styles. They can also be used as a promotional tool to generate buzz for an upcoming album.

In the digital age, EPs have become more popular as they offer artists greater flexibility and creative freedom. Many artists release EPs as a way to share new music with their fans without committing to a full-length album.

Etymology

The term “EP” originated in the 1950s as a abbreviation for “extended play”, which referred to a type of vinyl record that played at a slower speed than a standard single.

Usage Notes

When using the term “EP”, it’s common to use the abbreviation rather than spelling out “extended play”. In written contexts, it’s often used in lowercase (ep) unless it’s at the beginning of a sentence.

Cultural References

The term “EP” has been referenced in popular culture, including in music festivals and concerts, where it’s often used to describe a performance or set.

Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases

“Drop an EP” (to release an EP)
“EP worthy” (describing music that’s worthy of being released as an EP)

Related Words or Phrases

LP (long play)
Single
Album

Collocations

“Release an EP”
“Put out an EP”
“Debut EP”

Frequency of Use

The term “EP” is commonly used in the music industry and by music fans. It’s often used in online reviews, social media, and music blogs.