refrain

²refrain

noun

Definition of REFRAIN

: a regularly recurring phrase or verse especially at the end of each stanza or division of a poem or song : chorus; also : the musical setting of a refrain

Examples of REFRAIN

1. A common refrain among teachers these days is that the schools need more funding.
2. <I didn't know the verses of the song, so I only sang on the refrain.>

Origin of REFRAIN

Middle English refreyn, from Middle French refrain, alteration of Old French refrait melody, response, from past participle of refraindre to break up, moderate, from Vulgar Latin *refrangere, alteration of Latin refringere — more at refract

First Known Use: 14th century

Related to REFRAIN

Synonyms: burden, chorus

Related Words: repeat, response

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Other Music Terms

cacophony, chorister, concerto, counterpoint, madrigal, obbligato, presto, presto, riff, segue