WordLens

rhapsody

1 of 1noun
/ˈræpsədi/
Forms:rhapsodies
1

an epic poem in ancient Greece, prepared for oral recitation

  • Homer's Iliad was often performed as a rhapsody at festivals.
  • The singer memorized a rhapsody and performed it for the royal court.
  • Ancient audiences would gather to hear a rhapsody in the town square.
  • Each rhapsody was carefully structured to suit the reciter's performance.
  • The scholar studied fragments of a lost rhapsody from the fifth century BCE.
2

an instrumental composition marked with irregular form and improvisation, expressing strong emotions

C2Learn more on Wikipedia

A rhapsody is a musical composition characterized by its free-form structure and expressive, often improvisational style. It typically combines different musical themes or moods into a single, cohesive piece, allowing for a wide range of emotions and dynamic contrasts. Rhapsodies are known for their flexibility and creativity, often featuring dramatic changes in tempo and character. They can be written for various instruments or ensembles and are designed to showcase the composer’s imagination and emotional depth.

  • Rachmaninoff's Rhapsody on a Theme of Paganini is a masterful display of romanticism that sweeps the listener away in a torrent of rich melodies.
  • Beethoven's Nero Rhapsody depicts the tragic demise of Emperor Nero through grim yet sweeping movements that stir profound emotion.
  • The pianist performed Rachmaninoff's "Rhapsody on a Theme of Paganini" with virtuosic flair, captivating the audience with its lyrical melodies and dazzling technique.
  • The composer's latest work was a symphonic rhapsody inspired by the sights and sounds of the city, weaving together themes of urban life and vitality.
  • She wrote a heartfelt rhapsody for solo violin and orchestra, expressing her emotions and experiences through the soaring melodies and rich harmonies.
3

a passionate expression of intense feeling

  • When she heard the good news, Jenny burst into a joyful rhapsody, gushing enthusiastically about how happy she felt.
  • In a rhapsody of tears, Maria lamented the death of her beloved pet who had been her companion for many years.
  • Fired up after her team's victory, Jennifer burst into a joyful rhapsody about how proud she was of their accomplishments.