GNU Collaborative International Dictionary of English

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Found 3 definitions

1.       
   Phrase (?), n. [F., fr. L. phrasis diction, phraseology, Gr. , fr.  to speak.]
   1. A brief expression, sometimes a single word, but usually two or more words forming an expression by themselves, or being a portion of a sentence; as, “an adverbial phrase”.
   
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   “Convey” the wise it call. “Steal!” foh! a fico for the phrase. Shak.
   
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   2. A short, pithy expression; especially, one which is often employed; a peculiar or idiomatic turn of speech; as, “to err is human”.
   
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   3. A mode or form of speech; the manner or style in which any one expreses himself; diction; expression. “Phrases of the hearth.”  Tennyson.
   
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   Thou speak'st
   
   In better phrase and matter than thou didst. Shak.
   
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   4. (Mus.) A short clause or portion of a period.
   
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   ☞ A composition consists first of sentences, or periods; these are subdivided into sections, and these into phrases.
   
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   Phrase book, a book of idiomatic phrases.  J. S. Blackie.
   
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2.       
   Phrase, v. t. [imp. & p. p. Phrased (?); p. pr. & vb. n. Phrasing.] [Cf. F. phraser.] To express in words, or in peculiar words; to call; to style. “These suns -- for so they phrase 'em.”  Shak.
   
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3.       
   Phrase, v. i.
   1. To use proper or fine phrases. [R.]
   
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   2. (Mus.) To group notes into phrases; as, “he phrases well”. See Phrase, n., 4.
   
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