Antiphone is a term that is not commonly used in everyday conversations, but it has a significant place in the world of music and liturgy. It is a word that is often associated with the Christian church and is used to describe a particular type of singing or chanting. In this article, we will explore the meaning and definition of antiphone, its origin, associations, synonyms, and antonyms, and provide some example sentences to help clarify its usage.
Definitions
Antiphone is defined as a type of liturgical chant that is sung in response to another chant or prayer. It is also referred to as antiphon, which is derived from the Greek word “antiphōna,” meaning “sounding in response.” Antiphone is a type of call-and-response singing, where one group of singers responds to another group or soloist.
Origin
The origin of antiphone can be traced back to the early Christian church, where it was used as a way to enhance the liturgy and create a more meaningful worship experience. The practice of antiphonal singing can also be found in other religious traditions, such as Judaism and Islam.
Meaning in different dictionaries
The meaning of antiphone can vary slightly in different dictionaries, but the general definition is consistent. The Oxford English Dictionary defines antiphone as “a liturgical chant sung in response to another chant or prayer.” Merriam-Webster defines it as “a verse or song to be chanted or sung in response.” Collins Dictionary defines it as “a liturgical chant sung in response to another chant or prayer.”
Associations
Antiphone is most commonly associated with the Christian church and is used in various liturgical services, such as Mass, Vespers, and Matins. It is also used in other religious traditions, such as Jewish and Islamic worship. Antiphonal singing is often used in choirs and musical ensembles to create a more dynamic and engaging performance.
Synonyms
Synonyms of antiphone include antiphon, responsory, response, and refrain. These terms are all used to describe a type of liturgical or musical chant that is sung in response to another chant or prayer.
Antonyms
There are no direct antonyms of antiphone, as it is a specific type of singing or chanting. However, some opposite terms that may be used in contrast to antiphone include solo singing, unison singing, or instrumental music.
The same root words
The root word of antiphone is “antiphōna,” which is derived from the Greek words “anti,” meaning “opposite,” and “phōnē,” meaning “voice” or “sound.” Other words that share the same root include antiphonal, antiphonary, and antiphonic.
Example Sentences
- During the Mass, the choir sang a beautiful antiphone that echoed throughout the church.
- The cantor led the congregation in singing the antiphon, and the people responded with enthusiasm.
- The antiphonal singing between the two choirs created a powerful and moving performance.
- The antiphonary contained all of the antiphons and responsories used in the liturgical services.
- The antiphonic chanting of the monks filled the monastery with a sense of peace and tranquility.