rhythm guitar; backing guitar
Wasei-eigo term used in music contexts to refer to the guitar part that provides rhythmic and harmonic support, as opposed to lead guitar.
wasei-eigo (Japanese-coined English), from side guitar
He plays rhythm guitar in the band.
The rhythm guitar riff forms the foundation of the song.
Variant with interpunct; less common but seen in some contexts.
Wasei-eigo from English 'side' + 'guitar', meaning rhythm or backing guitar.