ˈklȯzhələ noun
( plural clausu·lae -ˌlē)
Etymology: Medieval Latin, from Latin, end, close of a rhetorical period, from clausus, past participle of claudere to close — more at close
1. : a rhythmic close or terminal cadence especially in ancient and medieval Latin prose rhythm — see cursus
2. in medieval music : an ornamented cadence or close
3. : a composition in descant style developed from a melismatic phrase of plainsong
• clau·su·lar -lə(r) adjective