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Nocturne Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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nocturne

[nษ’kหˆtษœrn ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

music form

A nocturne is a musical composition that is inspired by or evocative of the night. It often features a lyrical melody and is typically written for piano. Nocturnes are characterized by their expressive, gentle, and dreamy quality.

Synonyms

evening song, night piece.

Examples of usage

  • Chopin's Nocturne in E-flat major is one of his most famous works.
  • The pianist played a beautiful nocturne that captivated the audience.
  • Many composers, like Field and Chopin, are known for their nocturnes.
Context #2 | Noun

literature

In literature, a nocturne refers to a poem or other artistic work that invokes the themes of the night, often exploring feelings of nostalgia, tranquility, or melancholy.

Synonyms

moonlit verse, night poem.

Examples of usage

  • The poet wrote a nocturne that reflects on lost love.
  • Her nocturne captured the beauty of a moonlit night.
  • He often found inspiration for his nocturnes during quiet evenings.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Music

  • Chopin is one of the most celebrated composers of nocturnes, with 21 beautiful pieces that evoke deep emotions.
  • Nocturnes often feature flowing melodies and rich harmonies, creating a dreamy atmosphere.
  • They are typically played on the piano, but can also be arranged for other instruments.

Cultural Significance

  • Romantic composers embraced nocturnes to convey feelings of love, nostalgia, and tranquility.
  • Nocturnes have influenced modern music genres, including ambient and jazz, which often highlight tranquil themes.
  • Art and literature frequently use the idea of nocturnes to express night-time reflections and the beauty of silence.

Art and Literature

  • Visual arts depict nocturnes by exploring the play of light and shadow, capturing the essence of night.
  • Famous writers like Edgar Allan Poe often wrote poetry reflecting the themes of night and solitude, paralleling the mood of nocturnes.
  • Marking the transition from day to night, nocturnes often symbolize contemplation and introspection.

Psychology

  • Listening to gentle nocturnes can promote relaxation and help reduce anxiety, making them popular for nighttime routines.
  • Studies show that music like nocturnes can improve sleep quality by creating a calm environment.
  • Nocturnes can evoke nostalgia, connecting memories of quiet nights and serene moments.

Origin of 'nocturne'

Main points about word origin

  • 'Nocturne' comes from the Latin word 'nocturnus,' meaning 'of the night.'
  • The term was popularized in the 19th century by composer John Field, who created many pieces named 'nocturnes.'
  • Originally, it referred to a song or prayer sung at night; now it mainly describes piano music.

The word 'nocturne' comes from the French 'nocturne,' which itself derives from the Latin 'nocturnus,' meaning 'of the night.' Its first known use in English dates back to the early 19th century in the context of music. The term was popularized by composers like John Field and Frรฉdรฉric Chopin, who wrote extensive collections of compositions reflecting the mood and atmosphere of the night. As the genre evolved, the nocturne became associated not only with music but also with literary expressions, capturing the essence of nighttime imagery in poetry and prose. The connection between music and literature in conveying the themes of the night has continued to influence artists across various disciplines.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #37,202, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.