counterfugue

noun

coun·​ter·​fugue
"+ˌ-
plural counterfugues
: a musical fugue (see fugue entry 1 sense 1b) in which the answer (see answer entry 1 sense 5) is the inversion of the subject (see subject entry 1 sense 3f)

Word History

Etymology

translation of French contre-fugue

First Known Use

circa 1706, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of counterfugue was circa 1706

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

Dictionary Entries Near counterfugue

Cite this Entry

“Counterfugue.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/counterfugue. Accessed 21 Dec. 2024.

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!