refrain

Definition of refrainnext
as in chorus
a part of a song or hymn that is repeated every so often I didn't know the verses of the song, so I only sang on the refrain

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of refrain The customization means the trains operate a little differently in every place, but one consistent refrain has been delayed schedules and early-service hiccups. Thad Moore, AJC.com, 27 May 2026 While Machado acknowledged frustration and dissatisfaction, his assessment of the Padres after their 54th game — the one-third mark in a 162-game season — was a familiar refrain. Kevin Acee, San Diego Union-Tribune, 27 May 2026 This has been a common refrain throughout the emergence of new technology. Lance Eliot, Forbes.com, 22 May 2026 Upon booting the game up, a swift run of horns plays the main theme, a magnificent game-spanning refrain which appears during the mightiest moments, from title screen to credits. Billie Bugara, Pitchfork, 9 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for refrain
Recent Examples of Synonyms for refrain
chorus
Noun
  • Major stars from his talent agency joined the chorus calling for Casey Wasserman to resign as the chairman of LA28 after emails the mogul exchanged with Ghislaine Maxwell were revealed in the Epstein files in February.
    Los Angeles Times, Los Angeles Times, 4 June 2026
  • The verse is tethered to the earth; the chorus glides like a 747.
    Owen Gleiberman, Variety, 4 June 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Refrain.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/refrain. Accessed 10 Jun. 2026.

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