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cantilena

noun
can·​ti·​le·​na | \ ˌkan-tə-ˈlā-nə How to pronounce cantilena (audio) , -ˈlē- How to pronounce cantilena (audio) \

Definition of cantilena

: a vocal or instrumental passage of sustained lyricism

First Known Use of cantilena

circa 1740, in the meaning defined above

History and Etymology for cantilena

Italian, from Latin, song, from cantus

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The first known use of cantilena was circa 1740

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Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about cantilena

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