Gesamtkunstwerk

noun

Ge·​samt·​kunst·​werk

gəˈzämtˌku̇nstˌverk

plural -s

: an art work produced by a synthesis of various art forms (such as music and drama)

Word History

Etymology

German, from gesamt whole, entire (from Middle High German gesamt, gesament, past participle of samanen to gather, assemble, from Old High German samanōn, from saman- together, in the same place — akin to Gothic samana together, Old English tōsamne, Old Norse samr same) + kunst art + werk work, from Old High German werc

The Ultimate Dictionary Awaits

Expand your vocabulary and dive deeper into language with Merriam-Webster Unabridged.

1. Expanded definitions
2. Detailed etymologies
3. Advanced search tools
4. All ad-free

Discover what makes Merriam-Webster Unabridged the essential choice for true word lovers.

Start Your Free Trial Now