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miserere

Upper-Intermediate (B2)

IPA: //mɪˈzɛr.əˌreɪ//

KK: /mɪˈzɛr.ɛr.eɪ/

noun
Definition

A type of prayer or musical composition that expresses sorrow and asks for mercy, often associated with the 51st Psalm in religious contexts.


Example

The choir performed a beautiful miserere during the church service.


Conversation
Sloth A
Have you ever heard the miserere performed live?
Sloth B
No, I haven't, but I've read it's really emotional.
Sloth A
Yeah, it’s a beautiful expression of lamentation.
Sloth B
I can only imagine how powerful it must be to hear it in person!

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
lament
dirge
prayer
Antonyms
celebration
joy
exultation
Root Explanation

**Miserere** → It is derived from the Latin word "misereri" (meaning to have mercy or to feel pity) and the suffix "-ere" (a common verb ending in Latin). The word "miserere" means to express a plea for mercy or compassion.

Memory Tip

Think of the Latin root 'misereri' which means to feel pity — this helps you remember that 'miserere' is a call for mercy.

Visually Confused Words
miterer
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