chorale prelude

noun

: a composition usually for organ based on a chorale

Example Sentences

Recent Examples on the Web Those composers include some from Luther’s time and some from our time, and instrumental chorale preludes appear in Swingle Singers-like vocalise, without the insistent perkiness. —

Anthony Tommasini, James R. Oestreich, David Allen, Seth Colter Walls And Joshua Barone, New York Times, 13 Dec. 2017

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'chorale prelude.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1924, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler

The first known use of chorale prelude was circa 1924

See more words from the same year

Cite this Entry

Style

“Chorale prelude.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/chorale%20prelude. Accessed 5 Jun. 2023.

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