chorale

[ kuh-ral, -rahl, kaw-, koh-; kawr-uhl, kohr- ]

noun

1. a hymn, especially one with strong harmonization:

   a Bach chorale.

2. a group of singers specializing in singing church music; choir.

chorale

/ kɒˈrɑːl /

noun

1. a slow stately hymn tune, esp of the Lutheran Church
2. a choir or chorus

Word History and Origins

Origin of chorale¹

1835–45; < German Choral, short for Choralgesang, translation of Latin cantus chorālis choral singing; choral

Word History and Origins

Origin of chorale¹

C19: from German Choralgesang, translation of Latin cantus chorālis choral song

Example Sentences

With them the popular type of tune was the chorale; and here they refused to give way to popular clamour.

From Project Gutenberg

The overture leads into the first piece of song, the chorale that forms a vital part of the musical texture as the opera proceeds.

From Project Gutenberg

Then all the congregation sang the chorale, and the choir kept silence.

From Project Gutenberg

It was published in England in 1618, and had tunes resembling the German Chorale, printed over the psalms, without harmony.

From Project Gutenberg

The other was the Queen's expression as she raised her eyes to heaven while her husband's Chorale was sung.

From Project Gutenberg

Related Words

• chant
• ditty
• oratorio
• paean
• psalm