What does chorist mean?
A chorist is a person who pays for the expenses of a church or other religious institution, often in exchange for a seat or other privilege. This term is often used in historical or literary contexts to describe the patronage of wealthy individuals who supported the arts and architecture of their time. The word 'chorist' is derived from the Greek word 'choros,' meaning 'dance' or 'song,' which refers to the musical or liturgical performances that took place in ancient Greek temples. In modern usage, the term 'chorist' is often used to describe a person who supports the arts or a particular institution, but it is not commonly used in everyday conversation.
nounA chorist is a person who pays for the expenses of a church or other religious institution, often in exchange for a seat or other privilege.
- A person who pays for the expenses of a church or other religious institution.
"The wealthy patron was a chorist at the local cathedral, where he was guaranteed a prime seat for Sunday services."
"The wealthy patron was a chorist at the local cathedral, where he was guaranteed a prime seat for Sunday services."
"The church's chorists helped to fund the restoration of the stained glass windows."
The plural form 'chorists' is used to refer to multiple people who pay for the expenses of a church or other religious institution.
"The church's chorists helped to fund the restoration of the stained glass windows."
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of chorist
The word 'chorist' is derived from the Greek word 'choros,' meaning 'dance' or 'song,' which refers to the musical or liturgical performances that took place in ancient Greek temples. The term 'chorist' was first used in the 16th century to describe a person who paid for the expenses of a church or other religious institution. Over time, the term has evolved to include a broader range of meanings, including the support of the arts or a particular institution.
How chorist is actually used
In some contexts, the term 'chorist' may be used to refer to a person who pays for a specific privilege or service, such as a seat at a concert or a place at a table in a restaurant.