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

With Christmas and more than likely a touch of the omicron variant in the air, Thursday’s performance of Bach’s magnificent Magnificat and Part I of Handel’s three-part “Messiah” oratorio felt pulled between two poles: the exuberance and beauty of these two extraordinary pieces of music, and the caution and uncertainty that continues to distance our embrace of it.

From Washington Post

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

From Washington Post

Her aria in “Magnificat” — “He hath filled the hungry with good things” — showcased the exquisite control and power of her voice, but also the softness at its edges.

From Washington Post

Bass William Meinert offered one of my favorite arias of “Magnificat” atop David Hardy’s sturdy cello and organist William Neil’s sublime underlining.

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