# rhapsody

/ˈɹæpsədi/ (US) · /ɹˈæpsədi/ (UK) · CEFR C2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/rhapsody
Updated: 2026-05-11

## Definition

a piece of music or writing that is full of strong feelings and does not follow a strict pattern. It often feels very free and exciting.

For teachers: an instrumental composition of irregular form that is often improvisational in character and expresses powerful emotion. In a literary context, refers to an effusive expression of feeling or a portion of an epic poem.

## Examples

- The pianist played a beautiful rhapsody.
- The composer's latest rhapsody blends traditional folk melodies with modern orchestral arrangements in a surprisingly fluid way.
- The critic's review was less of a formal analysis and more of a breathless rhapsody, praising the lead actor's performance with an intensity that bordered on the hyperbolic.

## Usage notes

- Often used in the titles of musical works; can also describe highly emotional speech or writing.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.