cantus firmus
English edit
This entry needs a sound clip exemplifying the definition.
Etymology edit
From Latin cantus firmus (literally “fixed chant”).
Pronunciation edit
- (General American) IPA(key): /ˈkæntəs ˈfɝməs/
- (Received Pronunciation) IPA(key): /ˈkæntəs ˈfɜːməs/
- Hyphenation: can‧tus fir‧mus
Noun edit
cantus firmus (plural cantus firmi)
- (music) A preexisting melody forming the basis of a polyphonic composition.