oblique motion

noun

, Music.

1. the relative motion of two melodic parts in which one remains in place or moves relatively little while the other moves more actively.

Word History and Origins

Origin of oblique motion¹

First recorded in 1805–15

Example Sentences

The entire flyer shell could be revolved about the axis so that oblique motion with our bow and stern motors was readily possible.

From Project Gutenberg

Hence in intelligible operations, that which simply has uniformity is attributed to circular motion; that intellectual motion by which a man proceeds from one thing to another is attributed to direct motion; while that intellectual operation which has a certain uniformity combined with progress towards different points, is attributed to oblique motion.

From Project Gutenberg

To the human soul, on the contrary, he assigns this same oblique motion, similarly compounded of the direct and the circular motions, inasmuch as in its reasonings it makes use of the Divine illuminations.

From Project Gutenberg

And lastly, he explains the oblique motion differently in each case.

From Project Gutenberg

And he assigns oblique motion to the Angels—a motion, that is, compounded of the direct and the circular—inasmuch as an Angel, according to his contemplation of God, provides for those inferior to him.

From Project Gutenberg