kən.ˈtä]d.ə, -ȧ], ka(a)-, kä-, kȧ-, ]tə\ noun
( -s )
Etymology: Italian, from cantare to sing, from Latin — more at chant
1. : a narrative poem set to recitative or alternate recitative and melody for a single voice accompanied by one or more instruments
2. : a sacred or secular choral composition comprising choruses, solos, recitatives, and interludes, usually accompanied by organ, piano, or orchestra, and arranged in a somewhat dramatic manner but not intended to be acted