Gregorian chant

noun

1. the plain song or cantus firmus used in the ritual of the Roman Catholic Church.
2. a melody in this style.

Gregorian chant

noun

1. another name for plainsong

Gregorian chant

1. The traditional music for Latin texts in the worship of the Roman Catholic Church . Gregorian chant is marked by performance in unison and by free-flowing rhythms that follow the phrasing of the text. The chants often call for one syllable to be sung across several notes.

Word History and Origins

Origin of Gregorian chant¹

1745–55; named after Pope Gregory I; -ian

Example Sentences

Many yearn for Masses that echo with medieval traditions – more Latin, more incense, more Gregorian chants.

From Seattle Times

Many yearn for Masses that echo with medieval traditions – more Latin, more incense more Gregorian chants.

From Seattle Times

When Martin O’Donnell was told that Halo’s theme should feel ancient, mysterious and epic, his mind quickly went to Gregorian chants.

From New York Times

In preparing the concerto’s somber opening notes, he said, he imagines the “angel of death” or cloaked figures singing a Gregorian chant, following his teacher’s advice.

From New York Times

High Mass on Sundays begins with holy water sprinkled up the aisle, and it features plumes of incense and the sounds of bells, a pipe organ and Gregorian chant.

From New York Times