antiphon

noun

an·​ti·​phon ˈan-tə-fən How to pronounce antiphon (audio)
-ˌfän
1
: a psalm, anthem, or verse sung responsively
2
: a verse usually from Scripture said or sung before and after a canticle, psalm, or psalm verse as part of the liturgy

Examples of antiphon in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
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The prayer is one of four Marian antiphons, or prayers to the Virgin Mary, which is said throughout the Easter season. Lauren Kent, CNN Money, 11 May 2025 Prior to the procession, Camerlengo Kevin Farrell, the cardinal tasked with arranging the papal funeral and conclave, held a brief service in the chapel of Casa Santa Marta with a short antiphon of hope. Caitlin Danaher, CNN Money, 23 Apr. 2025 An antiphon is a short piece of religious text, most often derived from one of the Psalms, and set to music, usually in the form of a Gregorian chant. oregonlive, 1 Sep. 2020 Your manuscript appears to be a 16th century antiphon, and is ink on vellum, which is usually made of calfskin. oregonlive, 1 Sep. 2020 Consider using a disposable worship aid or the use of familiar hymns, songs, antiphons, and acclamations. Madeline Mitchell, Cincinnati.com, 8 May 2020

Word History

Etymology

Middle English antiphone, from Middle French, from Late Latin antiphona — more at anthem

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 2

Time Traveler
The first known use of antiphon was in the 15th century

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Cite this Entry

“Antiphon.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/antiphon. Accessed 23 May. 2025.

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