chant
/tʃænt/ · chant
noun
- A type of singing done generally without instruments and harmony. The monks sang a chant during the ceremony.
- A short and simple melody, divided into two parts by double bars, to which unmetrical psalms, etc., are sung or recited. The choir sang a chant during the service.
- Twang; manner of speaking; a canting tone. The politician's chant was criticized for being insincere.
verb
- To sing, especially without instruments, and as applied to monophonic and pre-modern music. The monks chanted during the ceremony.
- To sing or intone sacred text. The priest chanted the psalm during the service.
- To utter or repeat in a strongly rhythmical manner, especially as a group. The football fans chanted insults at the referee.
Did you know? The word 'chant' has been used in various forms throughout history, including in ancient Greek and Roman music, as well as in medieval European liturgy.