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DictionaryRoot: khoros
Greek

khoros

a band of dancers and singers

Forms

  • khoros
  • chorus — The Latin form.
  • choir — The word changed through French before entering English.

Origin

An ancient Greek word whose deeper origin is uncertain.

Note

Choir and chorus are two English borrowings of the same Greek source through different routes.

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noun / verb

chorus

A group of voices performing or responding together.

The chorus sings from the back of the stage.

Etymology
chorusGreeka band of dancers and singers

The Greek word names a performing group, especially in drama. English preserves the collective voice and extends it to people responding together outside a formal performance.

More examples

  • She joined the community chorus.
  • A chorus of complaints greets the announcement.
  • The children chorused their thanks.

Forms

chorus · choruses · chorused · chorusing

choral adjective — relating to a group of singers

Similar words

choir
An organized singing group, often associated with church music.
ensemble
A group of performers more generally.