Cantilenes

/ˌkæntɪˈleɪnz/ noun

Definition

Plural of cantilene; multiple smooth, flowing melodies or songlike musical passages with lyrical quality.

Etymology

English plural of 'cantilene' (French variant of Italian 'cantilena'), formed by adding the standard '-s' ending.

Kelly Says

When you listen to a beautiful violin concerto, you're often hearing several cantilenes layered together—each one singing its own musical line while creating harmony! Composers prize the ability to write multiple cantilenes that sound perfect together.

Related Words

Explore More Words

Get the Word Orb API

Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.