Definition

A book that contains a collection of antiphons, which are musical responses sung in a religious service, especially during the Divine Office.

Example

The choir used the antiphonary to follow the musical responses during the service.

Conversation

Have you ever seen an antiphonary before?

No, I haven't! What's that?

It's a book that contains the choral parts of the Divine Office.

That sounds interesting! I would love to check one out sometime.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Antiphonary → It is formed from "anti-" (meaning against or opposite) and "phōnē" (meaning voice or sound) and the suffix "-ary" (meaning relating to or connected with). The word refers to a book containing antiphons, which are responses sung in opposition to a choir or congregation's voice.

Memory Tip

Think of 'anti-' meaning against and 'phōnē' meaning voice — an antiphonary is a book that relates to voices singing in opposition.

Visually Confused Words