antiphonal

/ænˈtɪfənəl/
noun
  1. A book containing antiphons (short chants) for use in religious services.
    • The church's antiphonal was used every morning during the service.
    • The monk carefully copied the antiphonal by hand in the scriptorium.
    • She found an old antiphonal in the library, filled with medieval musical notation.
adjective
  1. Relating to or consisting of two groups that sing or respond alternately, especially in religious music.
    • The composer wrote an antiphonal piece for two choirs placed on opposite sides of the hall.
    • The choir performed an antiphonal psalm, with one side answering the other.
    • In the cathedral, the antiphonal singing created a beautiful echo effect.
  2. Characterized by alternating or responsive statements or actions, like a call and response.
    • The antiphonal cheers of the two fan sections made the stadium feel alive.
    • The debate had an antiphonal rhythm, with each speaker responding to the previous point.
    • Their conversation was almost antiphonal, each finishing the other's sentences.
What does "antiphonal" mean? | whatsthatwordmean | whatsthatwordmean