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Medley Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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medley

[ˈmɛdli ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

music

A medley is a piece of music that is made up of a series of tunes or songs played or sung one after the other.

Synonyms

mixture, potpourri, selection.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
medley

Use in musical or artistic contexts when referring to a collection of songs, tunes, or styles blended together. Also applicable in sports for referring to a combination of different events or activities.

  • The band performed a medley of their greatest hits.
  • He won a gold medal in the 200-meter individual medley event.
potpourri

Use when referring to a fragrant mixture of dried petals and spices in households for scent. Can also be used metaphorically to refer to a diverse or miscellaneous collection of items or ideas.

  • She keeps a bowl of potpourri in the living room to make the house smell nice.
  • The book is a potpourri of short stories, poems, and essays.
mixture

Use when referring to a combination of different substances or elements blended together physically, not chemically. It can be used in cooking, science, or general contexts.

  • The recipe calls for a mixture of flour, sugar, and eggs.
  • The atmosphere is a mixture of various gases.
selection

Use when referring to a carefully chosen set of items or options. Often used in retail, menus, or curated content.

  • The store offers a wide selection of wines.
  • You can find our selection of sandwiches on the menu.

Examples of usage

  • The band played a medley of popular songs from the 80s.
  • She performed a beautiful medley of classical piano pieces.
Context #2 | Noun

food

A medley is a mixture of different types of fruit, vegetables, or other food items.

Synonyms

assortment, selection, variety.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
medley

Use this word when referring to a mixture of different things, often in a creative or artistic context.

  • The band's performance was a medley of classic rock hits.
  • The chef prepared a delicious medley of seasonal vegetables.
assortment

This term is suitable when you are talking about a diverse collection of items, usually offered together for sale or display.

  • The gift shop has an assortment of handmade crafts.
  • He bought an assortment of chocolates for the holiday.
variety

This word is best used when emphasizing the number of different types or sorts of something available.

  • She enjoys a variety of hobbies, including painting and hiking.
  • The supermarket stocks a variety of fruits and vegetables.
selection

Choose this word when referring to a range of choices from which something can be picked.

  • The bookstore offers a wide selection of novels.
  • Please make a selection from the menu.

Examples of usage

  • The salad was a medley of fresh greens, tomatoes, and avocado.
  • The stir-fry included a medley of colorful bell peppers.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Origin of 'medley'

The word 'medley' originated from the Old French word 'medlee', meaning 'mixture'. It entered the English language in the late 14th century, initially referring to a mixed dish of food. Over time, the term expanded to include a mix or assortment of things in various contexts, such as music. Today, 'medley' is commonly used in music and culinary settings to describe a blend or combination of different elements.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #22,228, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.