2 entries under this word

Dirge

Dirge, n.

noun

(18), n. [Contracted from the first word of a hymn beginning, “Dirige gressus meos,” formerly sung at funerals.] A piece of music of a mournful character, intended to accompany funeral rites.

The raven croaked, and hollow shrieks of owls Sung dirges at her funeral. Ford.

Dir'i-ge, n.

noun

n. [See supra.] A service for the dead in the Romish church, being a hymn beginning, “Dirige gressus meos;” a dirge. “Matins, and mass, and even-song, and placebo, and dirige.” Wycliffe.

Resort, I pray you, unto my sepulture To sing my dirige with great devotion. Chaucer.