refrains

Definition of refrainsnext
plural of refrain
as in choruses
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 refrains What Trump is saying Trump likes to repeat two basic refrains about his economic policy. David Goldman, CNN Money, 12 Dec. 2025 Economists expect the Fed to deliver a kind of hawkish cut, a move that acknowledges the weakness in hiring but refrains from promising a sustained cutting cycle. Eva Roytburg, Fortune, 9 Dec. 2025 Normally, the Commission redacts or refrains from publishing proprietary details. Senior Reporter, PC Magazine, 29 Sep. 2025
Recent Examples of Synonyms for refrains
choruses
Noun
  • Channelling the ’80s via Kate Bush and Cyndi Lauper, Hollingworth revels in rollicking choruses fit for shoulder pads.
    Aimee Cliff, Pitchfork, 16 Jan. 2026
  • When experienced live, its commanding choruses, exquisite vocal solos, awesome symphonic score and theatrical libretto can produce such a staggering emotional intensity that some music fans half-jokingly refer to it as Verdi’s best opera.
    Luis Palomares, Miami Herald, 14 Jan. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Refrains.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/refrains. Accessed 30 Jan. 2026.

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