contrafact

noun

con·​tra·​fact

ˈkän‧trəˌfakt

variants or contrafactum

ˈ⸗⸗ˌ⸗təm,

ˌ⸗⸗ˈ⸗⸗

plural contrafacts

-ts

or contrafacta

-tə

: a 16th century musical setting of the mass or a chorale or hymn produced by replacing the text of a secular song with religious poetry compare parody mass

Word History

Etymology

New Latin contrafactum, from Medieval Latin, neuter of contrafactus, past participle of contrafacere to counterfeit (translation of Middle French contrefaire), from Latin contra- + facere to do

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