[re.qui.em] n [ME, fr. L (first word of the introit of the requiem mass), acc. of requies rest, fr. re- + quies quiet, rest--more at while] (14c) 1: a mass for the dead
2. a: a solemn chant (as a dirge) for the repose of the dead b: something that resembles such a solemn chant 3 a: a musical setting of the mass for the dead b: a musical composition in honor of the dead