third species
third–species counterpoint
Definition of third species
: species counterpoint in which the added voice consists of four notes for each note of the cantus firmus … there is therefore no reason for treating triple time before the following exercises in third species. — Knud Jeppesen, Counterpoint, 1930 — see species counterpoint illustration — compare first species second species fourth species fifth species unequal counterpoint
People Are Reading
There's more!
Love words? You must — there are over 200,000 words in our free online dictionary, but you are looking for one that’s only in the Merriam-Webster Unabridged Dictionary.
Start your free trial today and get unlimited access to America's largest dictionary, with:
- More than 250,000 words that aren't in our free dictionary
- Expanded definitions, etymologies, and usage notes
- Advanced search features
- Ad free!
First Known Use of third species
1834
Seen and Heard
What made you want to look up third species? Please tell us where you read or heard it (including the quote, if possible).
Writing? Check your grammar now!