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requiem
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Dictionary definition of requiem
A musical composition or a religious ceremony specifically dedicated to honoring and remembering the deceased, typically performed during a funeral or memorial service.
"The requiem's lyrics spoke of the impermanence of life and the hope for eternal rest."
Detailed meaning of requiem
Requiems are solemn and contemplative in nature, often featuring choral arrangements and orchestral accompaniments. These compositions are meant to provide a sense of solace and reflection for those in mourning and to pay tribute to the departed. The word "requiem" itself is derived from the Latin phrase "Requiem aeternam dona eis, Domine," which translates to "Grant them eternal rest, O Lord," and it is a central theme in the Roman Catholic Mass for the Dead. Beyond its musical and religious associations, "requiem" can also be used metaphorically to describe any solemn or mournful event or expression that commemorates a loss or tragic occurrence.
Example sentences containing requiem
1. The choir performed a moving requiem in honor of the victims of the tragedy.
2. The composer's requiem is considered to be one of the greatest works in the classical repertoire.
3. The funeral service included a requiem mass, with readings and hymns for the deceased.
4. The musician wrote a requiem as a tribute to his late mentor and friend.
5. The movie's closing credits featured a haunting requiem that captured the melancholic mood of the film.
6. The poet's final collection was a requiem for the passing of an era.
History and etymology of requiem
The noun 'requiem' has its etymological origins in Latin, specifically from the phrase 'Requiem aeternam dona eis, Domine,' which means 'Grant them eternal rest, O Lord.' This phrase is part of the opening of a liturgical text used in the Roman Catholic Mass for the Dead. Over time, the word 'requiem' came to be associated with the entire Mass for the Dead and, by extension, with any musical composition or religious ceremony specifically dedicated to honoring and remembering the deceased. The term embodies the solemn and reverent nature of such occasions, emphasizing the hope for eternal rest and peace for the departed. When we refer to a 'requiem' today, we draw on its Latin origins, signifying a moment of reflection and commemoration for those who have passed away.
Further usage examples of requiem
1. The artist's installation was a requiem for the lost art of handwriting.
2. The requiem performance was held in a historic cathedral, adding to the solemnity of the occasion.
3. The requiem was a testament to the power of music to provide comfort and solace in times of grief.
4. The requiem's melodies were simple and haunting, conveying a sense of reverence and awe.
5. The requiem's mournful tones captured the depth of emotion felt by those attending the service.
6. The haunting requiem echoed through the cathedral, honoring the departed.
7. The choir's voices filled the air with the solemn beauty of a requiem.
8. The funeral procession was accompanied by a moving requiem.
9. The composer poured his grief into a heartfelt requiem for his friend.
10. The orchestra played a mournful requiem at the memorial service.
11. The priest conducted a requiem mass to offer solace to the grieving.
12. The requiem's melody conveyed a sense of peace and remembrance.
13. The opera singer's performance of the requiem moved the audience to tears.
14. The requiem's lyrics celebrated the life of the dearly departed.
15. The requiem's solemn notes paid tribute to those lost in the war.
16. The requiem provided comfort to mourners during the somber ceremony.
17. The requiem's somber refrain echoed in the empty church.
18. The requiem choir rehearsed tirelessly for the upcoming memorial.
19. The pianist played a heartfelt requiem at the graveside service.
20. The requiem's melodies united people in their shared grief.
21. The composer's requiem captured the essence of loss and longing.
22. The requiem was a powerful expression of mourning and hope.
23. The requiem's choral harmonies resonated with the mourners' hearts.
24. The requiem's crescendo conveyed a sense of transcendence.
25. The requiem's final notes left a lingering sense of peace and closure.
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Literary and Artistic Elements, Community and Society, Inventive and Inspired, Occasions and Occurrences, Tradition and Heritage, Recollect and Ruminate, History and Nostalgia
lament,ritual,tribute
ceremony,dirge,elegy,hymn,liturgy,memorial,threnody
Synonyms for requiem
Quiz categories containing requiem
elegy, celebration, festivity, party
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