Choir
/ˈkwaɪər/noun
A group of singers performing together, often in a church or concert setting.
Did you know?“Choir” entered English through Old French from Latin chorus, and its deeper Greek ancestor referred to a ring of dancers and singers in sacred performance, where voice and movement were part of the same rite.
Etymological Timeline
Ancient Greek
Greek
χορός (khorós)
“A dance, dancing-place, or chorus of singers and dancers in ritual performance.”
Latin
Latin
chorus
“A group of singers or dancers; a chorus in drama or ceremony.”
Old French
Old French
cuer / choeur
“A choir, church choir, or chancel area.”
Middle English
English
quire
“A choir or group of singers, especially in church.”
Modern English
English
choir
“A group of singers, especially one that performs in a church or concert setting.”
Explore more surprising origins