cantilena

/ˌkæntɪˈleɪnə/
noun
  1. A smooth, flowing, lyrical melody or vocal line, especially in classical music or opera.
    • The composer wrote a long cantilena for the cello solo.
    • The soprano's cantilena floated effortlessly over the orchestra.
    • This piece features a beautiful cantilena in the second movement.
  2. A simple, songlike instrumental piece or passage.
    • The flute's cantilena was the highlight of the concert.
    • He hummed a quiet cantilena while walking through the park.
    • The pianist played a gentle cantilena that reminded me of a lullaby.
What does "cantilena" mean? | whatsthatwordmean | whatsthatwordmean