organum

noun

or·​ga·​num ˈȯr-gə-nəm How to pronounce organum (audio)
1
: early polyphony of the late Middle Ages that consists of one or more voice parts accompanying the cantus firmus often in parallel motion at a fourth, fifth, or octave above or below
also : a composition in this style
2

Word History

Etymology

Medieval Latin, from Latin, organ

First Known Use

1620, in the meaning defined at sense 2

Time Traveler
The first known use of organum was in 1620

Dictionary Entries Near organum

Cite this Entry

“Organum.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/organum. Accessed 22 Nov. 2024.

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