Introits

Part of speech: noun

Definitions

1. A psalm or hymn sung at the start of a liturgical service, often part of the opening ritual of a religious ceremony
2. An opening chant or musical piece performed at the commencement of a church service as part of the liturgy
3. A sacred song or antiphon recited or sung to begin a religious service in formal worship

Etymology: "Introits" is the plural of "introit," the chant or psalm sung as the celebrant enters for Mass in the Western Church. The singular comes from Latin "introitus," meaning "an entrance," formed from "intro" ("inward") and "ire" ("to go"), so the name simply describes a going in.

Synonyms: psalms, chants, hymns, anthems