chorale

noun

cho·​rale kə-ˈral  -ˈräl 

1

: a hymn or psalm sung to a traditional or composed melody in church

also : a harmonization of a chorale melody

a Bach chorale

2

: chorus, choir

Synonyms of chorale

• hymn
• anthem
• psalm

Examples of chorale in a Sentence

practiced a chorale to perform in church

a chorale that is regarded as being among the best in the state

Recent Examples on the Web

One time he was told to write something from Bach, like a Bach chorale. — Andy Greene, Rolling Stone, 19 July 2026

There’s an impressive magic effect that occurs when one or two men are able to quickly turn themselves into a pit band, or off-Broadway chorale. — Chris Willman, Variety, 18 July 2026

The score by Joseph Bishara is shivery with chorales that moan like wraiths in the wind. — Amy Nicholson, Los Angeles Times, 30 Apr. 2026

Synchronized blinking faded when the researchers sped up the Bach chorales to 120 beats per minute. — Jesse Greenspan, Scientific American, 11 Mar. 2026

Word History

Etymology

German Choral, short for Choralgesang choral song

First Known Use

1829, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing chorale

• chorale prelude

Rhymes for chorale

• canal
• corral
• locale
• morale
• royale
• artisanal
• bal
• dal
• gal
• mal
• pal
• sal

Kids Definition

chorale

noun

cho·​rale kə-ˈral  -ˈräl 

1

: a sacred song sung by the choir or congregation or both at a church service : hymn

2

: chorus entry 1 sense 1b, choir