Neum
/njuːm/noun
A graphic sign used in medieval musical notation to indicate a melodic gesture or phrase.
Did you know?The word is connected with Greek terms for a sign or nod, while medieval neumes often recorded melodic shape without precisely specifying pitch.
Etymological Timeline
Ancient Greek
Greek
νεῦμα (neûma)
“A sign, signal, or nod; traditionally associated with the gesture-like nature of early musical notation.”
Late Antiquity
Greek
νεῦμα
“A musical sign or melodic indication in Greek theoretical and liturgical contexts.”
Medieval Latin
Latin
neuma
“A musical phrase or notation sign used to represent melodic movement.”
9th–10th Century
Old French
neume
“A written sign representing a group of notes or a melodic gesture.”
Middle English
English
neume, neum
“A mark in medieval music notation, especially in plainsong.”
Modern English
English
neum
“A medieval notation symbol indicating a melodic contour or phrase.”
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