Definition

1. Proper noun:

   • In Christian tradition, one of the three Magi, or wise men, from the East who visited the infant Jesus, bringing a gift of gold. He is traditionally depicted as a king of Nubia and is often represented as an elderly man.

2. Proper noun:

   • Lauritz Melchior (born 1890, died 1973), a celebrated Danish-American operatic tenor famous for his powerful performances in the heroic tenor roles of Richard Wagner's operas.

Examples of Usage

• Proper noun (Biblical Magus):

  • In the Nativity scene, Melchior is shown presenting his gift of gold.
  • Tradition holds that Melchior was the oldest of the three wise men.

• Proper noun (Person):

  • Lauritz Melchior was considered the foremost Heldentenor of his generation.
  • Many recordings of Wagner's operas feature the legendary voice of Melchior.

Advanced Usage

• The names of the Magi (Melchior, Caspar, and Balthazar) are not found in the Biblical account but come from later Christian tradition and art.
• In artistic depictions, Melchior is often portrayed with a white beard, symbolizing age and wisdom.

Variants and Related Words

• Magi (plural noun): The group of wise men to which Melchior belongs. Also called the Three Kings or the Three Wise Men.
• Heldentenor (noun): A German term for a "heroic tenor," the voice type for which Lauritz Melchior was famous.

Synonyms

• (For the Biblical figure): Wise Man, Magus, King.
• (For the singer): Tenor, Wagnerian tenor, Heldentenor.

Related Idioms or Phrases

• The Three Wise Men/Kings: The collective term for Melchior and his companions, Caspar and Balthazar.
  • The feast of Epiphany celebrates the visit of the Three Wise Men.

Noun

1. (New Testament) one of the three sages from the east who came bearing gifts for the infant Jesus; usually represented as a king of Nubia
2. United States operatic tenor (born in Denmark) noted for his Wagnerian roles (1890-1973)