"fugue" Definition

Definitions for the word "fugue" from multiple English dictionaries.

1. n.
A polyphonic composition, developed from a given theme or themes, according to strict contrapuntal rules. The theme is first given out by one voice or part, and then, while that pursues its way, it is repeated by another at the interval of a fifth or fourth, and so on, until all the parts have answered one by one, continuing their several melodies and interweaving them in one complex progressive whole, in which the theme is often lost and reappears.
Source: The 1913 Webster Unabridged Dictionary, 1913
2. n.
Piece of music in which a short melody or phrase is introduced by one part and taken up and developed by others. fugal adj. [latin fuga flight]
Source: Oxford English Dictionary, 1884

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This page provides a list of definitions and meanings for "fugue" from various historical English dictionaries. By displaying multiple definitions, you can compare and contrast different meanings and nuances of a word, phrase, or slang. You can also see the changes in meaning of "fugue" over time by viewing the definitions from different dictionaries published at different times in history. The page also includes other information to help users expand their vocabulary and understand the context of the word.

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