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Music (originally U.S.). As a modifier. Designating a style of close harmony singing, often characterized by consonant, four-part harmony and frequent use of dominant seventh chords, and typically for four male voices without instrumental accompaniment; relating to, characterized by, or singing in this style, as barbershop quartet, barbershop music, barbershop ensemble, etc.The origins of the style have been much debated; a direct connection with the earlier tradition of amateur music making in barber's shops (see barber's music n. at barber n. Compounds 2) has not been established. For a discussion of the tradition of informal quartet singing among African Americans, and the relationship of this to barbershop singing, see L. Abbott in American Music (1992) 10 289–325.In quot. 1887 used in the name of a particular ensemble, who may have performed in this style.