Magnificat

[ mag-nif-i-kat, -kaht; mahg-nif-i-kaht, mahn-yif- ]

noun

1. (italics) the hymn of the Virgin Mary in Luke, 1:46–55, beginning “My soul doth magnify the Lord,” used as a canticle at evensong or vespers.
2. a musical setting for this.

Magnificat

/ mæɡˈnɪfɪˌkæt /

noun

1. Christianity the hymn of the Virgin Mary (Luke 1:46-55), used as a canticle

Word History and Origins

Origin of Magnificat¹

1150–1200; Middle English < Latin: (it) magnifies (from the first word of the hymn)

Word History and Origins

Origin of Magnificat¹

from the opening phrase in the Latin version, Magnificat anima mea Dominum (my soul doth magnify the Lord)

Example Sentences

Katerina Burton also dazzled as one of the two soprano voices in “Magnificat,” her voice rich and bright.

From Washington Post

To close the year, Noseda will lead the orchestra in pieces from Handel’s “Messiah” as well as Bach’s “Magnificat.”

From Washington Post

National Symphony Orchestra music director Gianandrea Noseda conducts the NSO in a series of selections from “Messiah,” as well as Bach’s “Magnificat,” joined by vocalists and the University of Maryland’s Concert Choir.

From Washington Post

Mary’s “Magnificat” from the Gospel of Luke, in which she praises what God has done for the nation of Israel, is often read in churches across the country during December.

From Washington Post

Doorkins Magnificat was a stray cat that arrived at Southwark Cathedral about 12 years ago and made the building her home until she died last month.

From Fox News