Pronunciation: [kˈantɪlˌe͡ɪts] (IPA) 
Cantillates is a verb that means to chant or sing in a monotonous tone. The word is spelled with a hard "c," despite the soft "c" sound in the pronunciation. The first syllable is stressed, and the second syllable is pronounced with a short "i" sound. The final syllable is pronounced with a soft "t" and an "s" sound, making it a phoneme spelled with "-ates." Overall, the IPA transcription for cantillates is /kænˈtɪleɪts/.
Cantillates is a verb derived from the noun "cantillation." Cantillation refers to the act of chanting or intoning with a musical rhythm, particularly in the recitation of sacred texts such as religious verses or liturgical prayers. It involves the melodic rendering of the words, often embellished with specific musical symbols or notations.
When someone cantillates, they engage in the practice of cantillation by accurately and skillfully chanting or singing texts according to the prescribed melodies or musical patterns associated with them. This often involves a combination of specific pitches, rhythmical patterns, and vocal ornamentation that distinguish cantillation from regular speaking or singing. Cantillating is often performed in religious or spiritual contexts, where the purpose is to enhance the solemnity, beauty, or meditative quality of the recited words.
Cantillates can also be used metaphorically to describe someone speaking or reading in a melodic or rhythmic manner, even if not related to religious or liturgical practices. In this sense, it implies a musical quality in the delivery of spoken words, whether for artistic, dramatic, or expressive purposes.
Overall, cantillates is an active verb that denotes the skillful and melodic chanting or singing of text, often used to enhance spiritual or aesthetic experiences.
The word "cantillates" is derived from the Latin term "cantillatus", which is the past participle of the verb "cantillare". "Cantillare" originates from the Latin word "cantus", meaning "song" or "chant". Thus, "cantillates" ultimately traces back to the Latin root "cantus" and means to sing or chant with a melodic intonation.
