cantus firmus
cantus fir·mus
noun \-ˈfir-məs, -ˈfər-\Definition of CANTUS FIRMUS
1
: the plainsong or simple Gregorian melody originally sung in unison and prescribed as to form and use by ecclesiastical tradition
2
: a melodic theme or subject; especially : one for contrapuntal treatment
Origin of CANTUS FIRMUS
Medieval Latin, literally, fixed song
First Known Use: 1847
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