rhythm section

WordReference Random House Unabridged Dictionary of American English © 2025

rhythm′ sec′tion, [Music.]

1. Music, Music and Dance band instruments, as drums or bass, that supply rhythm rather than harmony or melody.
2. Music, Music and Dance the group of players in a band who play such instruments.

• 1925–30

Collins Concise English Dictionary © HarperCollins Publishers::

rhythm section noun

1. those instruments in a band or group (usually piano, double bass, and drums) whose prime function is to supply the rhythm