Definition

1. Noun:
   • A liturgical chant of the Roman Catholic Church: Plainchant refers to a body of traditional, monophonic, unaccompanied sacred song used in the liturgy of the Roman Catholic Church. It is also commonly known as Gregorian chant or plainsong.

Examples of Usage

• Noun:
  • The choir specializes in performing medieval plainchant.
  • The serene atmosphere was enhanced by the sound of plainchant during the service.

Advanced Usage

• "To sing plainchant": To perform this specific type of liturgical music.
  • The monks gather seven times a day to sing plainchant.

Variants and Related Words

• Plainsong (n): Another term for plainchant, often used interchangeably.
  • The study of plainsong requires understanding of medieval notation.
• Gregorian chant (n): A specific, codified repertoire of plainchant traditionally associated with Pope Gregory I.
  • Gregorian chant is the most famous form of plainchant.

Synonyms

• Chant: A general term for a repeated rhythmic phrase, often used in religious contexts.
• Canticle: A hymn or chant, typically with a biblical text.

Related Phrases

• Liturgical chant: A broader category of ritual song that includes plainchant.
  • Plainchant is the primary form of liturgical chant in the Western tradition.

Noun

1. a liturgical chant of the Roman Catholic Church