The author, coming from Roland Barthes’ concept of musica practica, brings the history and etymology of the term of rock and roll based on wide dictionary research. Historical reflection reveals the roots of rock and roll in - at least - 17th century and its evolution, especially in the culture of the Southern regions of USA. Comparative approach brings very different conclusions - Polish dictionaries don’t give reliable definitions of rock and roll (understood as a music form), researches in Poland are still facing the issue of complete description supported by solid exemplifications.