Antiphonic is a word that you may have heard before, but you may not be entirely sure what it means. In this article, we will explore the definition and meaning of antiphonic, its origin, and its associations.
Definitions
Antiphonic is an adjective that describes something that is sung or played alternately by two groups. It can also mean a type of music that is sung or played in this way.
Origin
The word antiphonic comes from the Greek word “antiphōnos,” which means “sounding in response.” The term was first used in the late 16th century.
Meaning in different dictionaries
According to Merriam-Webster, antiphonic means “of, relating to, or marked by antiphony.” The Oxford English Dictionary defines it as “sung or said, alternately by two groups.”
Associations
Antiphonic is often associated with religious music, particularly in the Christian church. It is also used in some forms of traditional music, such as African drumming.
Synonyms
Some synonyms for antiphonic include responsive, alternating, and call-and-response.
Antonyms
Antonyms for antiphonic include unresponsive and non-alternating.
The same root words
The root word of antiphonic is “phone,” which means sound. Other words that come from this root include telephone, phonics, and symphony.
Example Sentences
- The choir sang an antiphonic piece during the church service.
- The drummers played an antiphonic rhythm that had the audience dancing.
- The singers alternated between the two parts in the antiphonic song.
Antiphonic is a word that describes music that is sung or played alternately by two groups. It has its origins in Greek and is often associated with religious music. Knowing the meaning of antiphonic can help you to appreciate and understand different types of music.