refrain

noun

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 Nashville approach prioritizes clear story lines and catchy refrains. — Kelefa Sanneh, New Yorker, 12 June 2026 Voter rolls are a huge refrain in conspiracy theories and the subject of numerous (mostly unsucessful) lawsuits by Trump‘s Department of Justice. — Los Angeles Times, 11 June 2026 This became the common refrain of King’s relationship with the Bulls fanbase. — Julia Poe, Chicago Tribune, 11 June 2026 Knicks head coach Mike Brown bemoaned the officiating — a refrain shared by many of the team’s fans, including Mayor Mamdani. — Peter Sblendorio, New York Daily News, 10 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for refrain
Recent Examples of Synonyms for refrain
chorus
Noun
  • Nighttime in the Okefenokee is filled with a wild cacophony — the choruses of pig frogs, hooting owls, crickets and sometimes the deep, nerve-jerking bellowing of bull alligators.
    — Charles Seabrook, AJC.com, 25 July 2026
  • There’s always a ready audience, especially when the pesky Jewish state of Israel loudly refuses to join the chorus of condemnation and defends itself with force.
    — Voice of the People, New York Daily News, 25 July 2026
Definition of chorus

Phrases Containing refrain

Browse Nearby Words

refractory
refrain
refrained (from)
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Cite this Entry

“Refrain.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/refrain. Accessed 28 Jul. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on refrain

Nglish: Translation of refrain for Spanish Speakers

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about refrain

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