Definify.com
Webster 1913 Edition
Rhapsody
Rhap′so-dy
,Noun.
pl.
Rhapsodies
(#)
. [F.
rhapsodie
, L. rhapsodia
, Gr. ῥαψω,δία
, fr. ῥαψω,δόσ
a rhapsodist; ῥάπτειν
to sew, stitch together, unite + ὠ,δή
a song. See Ode
.] 1.
A recitation or song of a rhapsodist; a portion of an epic poem adapted for recitation, or usually recited, at one time; hence, a division of the Iliad or the Odyssey; – called also a
book
. 2.
A disconnected series of sentences or statements composed under excitement, and without dependence or natural connection; rambling composition.
“A rhapsody of words.” Shak.
“A rhapsody of tales.” Locke.
3.
(Mus.)
A composition irregular in form, like an improvisation;
as, Liszt’s “Hungarian
.” Rhapsodies
Webster 1828 Edition
Rhapsody
RHAP'SODY
,Noun.
Originally, a discourse in verse, sung or rehearsed by a rhapsodist; or a collection of verses, particularly those of Homer. In modern usage, a collection of passages thoughts or authorities, composing a new piece, but without necessary dependence or natural connection.