Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

xoana

noun
/ˈzoʊ.ənə/
Definition
A loanword adapted from Greek, referring to a type of anguished lament or a song of mourning.
Examples
  • The xoana sung at the memorial service moved everyone to tears.
  • In her sorrow, she composed a xoana to honor her late grandmother.
  • During the festival, the xoana echoed through the valley, reminding the villagers of their shared history.
Meaning
In ancient times, a xoana was often associated with rituals and ceremonies, expressing grief and sorrow for the loss of loved ones or significant events.
Synonyms
  • lament
  • elegy
  • dirge