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