Definition

1. Noun:
   • An epic poem adapted for recitation: A piece of writing, originally in ancient Greece, that is a long, narrative poem celebrating heroic deeds, designed to be spoken or sung aloud.
   • An effusively enthusiastic or ecstatic expression of feeling: A state of being carried away by overwhelming emotion, or a speech or piece of writing that expresses such feelings in an exaggerated way.
   • Music: A free instrumental composition in one extended movement, typically emotional or exuberant in character: In music, a piece that is often irregular in form and expressive, sometimes based on folk themes.

Examples of Usage

• Noun (Epic Poem):
  • The ancient bard performed a rhapsody about the Trojan War.
• Noun (Ecstatic Expression):
  • She went into rhapsodies over the beautiful sunset.
  • His review of the film was a complete rhapsody.
• Noun (Music):
  • Liszt's "Hungarian Rhapsodies" are famous piano works.

Advanced Usage

• "to go into rhapsodies (over/about something)": To express extreme delight or enthusiasm about something.
  • The critic went into rhapsodies about the young pianist's debut performance.

Variants and Related Words

• Rhapsodize (verb): To speak or write about something with great enthusiasm and delight.
  • He rhapsodized about the flavors of the meal.
• Rhapsodic (adjective): Characterized by or expressing rhapsody; ecstatically enthusiastic.
  • She gave a rhapsodic description of her journey.

Synonyms

• Ecstasy: An overwhelming feeling of great happiness or joyful excitement.
• Enthusiasm: Intense and eager enjoyment, interest, or approval.
• Ode: A lyric poem, typically one in the form of an address to a particular subject, written in varied or irregular meter. (Note: This is a related poetic form, but more structured than a rhapsody).

Related Phrases

• Rhapsody of praise: An extremely enthusiastic and effusive expression of approval.
  • The new policy was met with a rhapsody of praise from supporters.

Noun

1. an epic poem adapted for recitation