Gregorian chant

American  

noun

1. the plain song or cantus firmus used in the ritual of the Roman Catholic Church.

2. a melody in this style.

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Gregorian chant British  

noun

1. another name for plainsong

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Gregorian chant Cultural  

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.

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Etymology

Origin of Gregorian chant

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

Example Sentences

One Spotify employee got the age of 100 thanks to listening to classical music and Gregorian chants, she said.

From The Wall Street Journal

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