chorale

[kuh-ral, -rahl, kaw-, koh-, kawr-uhl, kohr-]

noun

1. a hymn, especially one with strong harmonization.

   a Bach chorale.

2. a group of singers specializing in singing church music; choir.

chorale

/ kɒˈrɑːl /

noun

1. a slow stately hymn tune, esp of the Lutheran Church

2. a choir or chorus

Word History and Origins

Origin of chorale¹

1835–45; < German Choral, short for Choralgesang, translation of Latin cantus chorālis choral singing; choral

Word History and Origins

Origin of chorale¹

C19: from German Choralgesang, translation of Latin cantus chorālis choral song

Example Sentences

Bendix was one of the 16 members of the symphony and the chorale who had lost their homes.

From Los Angeles Times

The chorale is an all-volunteer group of talented singers, directed by the dedicated Joseph Crnko, and deserved every minute of that standing ovation!

From Seattle Times

Sue Fink had hoped this trip would be a bonding experience for the chorale; though she hasn’t said so publicly, she is taking a sabbatical in 2024.

From Los Angeles Times

You might know two or three of his chorale preludes.

From New York Times

Phil in 1996, has what its composer calls “quasi-folk music,” a kind of folk music of the future, along with a formal chorale and canon, along with an homage to Sibelius.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• chant 
• ditty 
• oratorio 
• paean 
• psalm