musical chairs

noun

plural in form but singular in construction
: a game in which players march to music around a row of chairs numbering one less than the players and scramble for seats when the music stops
also : a situation or series of events suggesting the game of musical chairs (as in rapid change or confusing activity)

Examples of musical chairs in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
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Her move came at the last minute as candidates faced the deadline to get on the ballot to run for office in Florida, ending a frenetic game of political musical chairs. Anthony Man, Sun Sentinel, 14 June 2026 Ramírez’s exit forced the Guardians into a game of defensive musical chairs. Zack Meisel, New York Times, 14 June 2026 Their sales remain robust, as other brands falter and scramble for answers, and Alessandro Sartori has led Zegna since 2016, which feels like an entire lifetime compared to the musical chairs at other brands. Dave Schilling contributing follow, Los Angeles Times, 9 June 2026 Unintended consequences of Prop 50 The election night twist was just the latest way in which the 6th District has exemplified the confusing political game of musical chairs unleashed by Prop 50’s passage. Mathew Miranda, Sacbee.com, 3 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for musical chairs

Word History

First Known Use

1877, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of musical chairs was in 1877

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Musical chairs.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/musical%20chairs. Accessed 20 Jun. 2026.

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