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'Karaoke' is used to mean what it means in English -- that is, it refers to singing over pre-recorded music. However, it comes from the Japanese words 'kara' meaning "empty" and 'oke' which is an abbreviation of "orchestra." (Ookesutora in Japanese).

Thus, karaoke is "empty orchestra," or just the musical part of a song without the vocals. In modern karaoke, the main voice or voices have been digitally removed. Originally the term was applied to any prerecorded music rather than an actual orchestra.

Kara (Empty) Oke (orchestra)

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10y ago

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