crab canon

noun

: a musical canon (see canon entry 1 sense 6) in which the comes (see comes entry 2 sense 4) is a retrograde version of the dux

called also canon cancrizans, retrograde canon

Word History

Etymology

crab entry 3

First Known Use

1896, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of crab canon was in 1896

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 crab canon

Cite this Entry

“Crab canon.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/crab%20canon. Accessed 24 Dec. 2024.

Love words? Need even more definitions?

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