Chanting

Part of speech: noun, verb

Definitions

1. The process of rhythmically vocalizing phrases or melodies for purposes such as celebration or meditation
2. Engaging in the repetitive vocal expression of words or sounds often associated with ceremonial or communal activities
3. The act of producing repetitive sounds or phrases vocally, which can serve various purposes like worship or unifying a group

Etymology: "Chanting" is the form of "chant" that names the act of singing or intoning the same words or sounds over and over. The word "chant" arrived in English from Old French "chanter," which came from Latin "cantare," meaning "to sing." The English noun and verb developed from that root, and the verb took on its repetitive, rhythmic sense in use. The "-ing" ending is the common English suffix that turns a verb into a noun naming the activity itself. In Middle English the form appeared as "chauntynge," so the ending was already doing its usual job when the word was first written down. Because the suffix is so productive, "chanting" follows the same pattern as countless other activity nouns, such as "singing" or "reading."

Synonyms: singing, intoning, reciting, hymning, vocalizing

Antonyms: silencing, muffling, quieting, hushing, suppressing