Definitions

1. noun

a part of a church service consisting of a solo singer singing a melody above a hymn or other part being sung by a choir or congregation

“The church choir accompanied the soloist’s descant during the Christmas carol service.”

2. verb

to sing a solo above a hymn or other part being sung by a choir or congregation

“The choir descanted the final verse of the hymn, adding a rich harmony to the melody.”

3. verb

to elaborate or interpret (something) in a fanciful or elaborate way

“The poet descanted on the meaning of the ancient myth, adding layers of symbolism and metaphor to the original story.”