prolation

noun

pro·​la·​tion
prōˈlāshən
plural prolations
1
obsolete : utterance
the prolation of the words of benedictionJohn Lloyd
2
or prolatio music : the relationship between the semibreve and the minim in mensural notation

Note: In major prolation the semibreve is divided into three minims, whereas in minor prolation it is divided into two.

compare modus, tempus

Word History

Etymology

Latin prolation-, prolatio, from prolatus + -ion-, -io -ion

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of prolation was in the 14th century

Love words?

You must — there are over 200,000 words in our free online dictionary, but you are looking for one that’s only in the Merriam-Webster Unabridged Dictionary.

Start your free trial today and get unlimited access to America's largest dictionary, with:

  • More than 250,000 words that aren't in our free dictionary
  • Expanded definitions, etymologies, and usage notes
  • Advanced search features
  • Ad free!

Dictionary Entries Near prolation

Cite this Entry

“Prolation.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/prolation. Accessed 29 Nov. 2024.

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!