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tempus

noun
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tem·​pus | \ ˈtempəs \
plural tempora\ -​pərə \

Definition of tempus

: the relationship between breve and semibreve in mensural music When the tempus is imperfect a breve equals two minims.

— called also time

— compare modus, prolation

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First Known Use of tempus

1614, in the meaning defined above

History and Etymology for tempus

Latin, time

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Cite this Entry

“Tempus.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/tempus. Accessed 10 Apr. 2021.

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