Definition

1. Proper noun:
   • The Canticle of Mary: A hymn of praise spoken by the Virgin Mary, as recorded in the Gospel of Luke (1:46-55), beginning with the Latin words "Magnificat anima mea Dominum" ("My soul magnifies the Lord").

Usage

• Proper noun:
  • The choir sang the Magnificat during the evening service.
  • Her favorite passage from the Bible is the Magnificat.
  • The text of the Magnificat is a central part of Christian liturgy.

Advanced Usage

• "to recite/sing the Magnificat": to speak or chant this specific biblical canticle.
  • The congregation stood to sing the Magnificat.
• Capitalization: The word "Magnificat" is always capitalized, as it is the title of a specific text.
  • Correct: We studied the Magnificat in class.
  • Incorrect: We studied the magnificat in class.

Variants and Related Words

• Canticle (noun): A hymn or chant, typically with a biblical text, used in Christian liturgy. The Magnificat is one of several biblical canticles.
• Nunc Dimittis (proper noun): Another biblical canticle, from Luke 2:29-32, often paired with the Magnificat in liturgical settings.

Synonyms

• Song of Mary: Another name for the Magnificat.
• Canticle of Mary: A descriptive synonym emphasizing its form as a sacred song.

Related Phrases

• Magnificat and Nunc Dimittis: A common pairing in Anglican and other Christian liturgical music, often set together as a single musical work.
  • The composer wrote a beautiful setting of the Magnificat and Nunc Dimittis.

Noun

1. (Luke) the canticle of the Virgin Mary (from Luke 1:46 beginning `Magnificat anima mea Dominum')