neume

noun

ˈnüm How to pronounce neume (audio)
ˈnyüm
: any of various symbols used in the notation of Gregorian chant
neumatic adjective

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, from Medieval Latin pneuma, neuma, from Greek pneuma breath — more at pneumatic

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of neume was in the 14th century

Dictionary Entries Near neume

Cite this Entry

“Neume.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/neume. Accessed 29 Mar. 2024.

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