Recapitulation (Noun)
Meaning 1
Emergence during embryonic development of various characters or structures that appeared during the evolutionary history of the strain or species.
Classification
Nouns denoting natural processes.
Examples
- The development of gill slits in human embryos is a classic example of recapitulation, as they are a vestigial trait that was present in our fish-like ancestors.
- The study of embryonic development in different species reveals a pattern of recapitulation, where early developmental stages resemble those of their evolutionary ancestors.
- During embryonic development, the formation of a notochord is a recapitulation of the evolutionary history of chordates, as it is a characteristic that was present in the earliest chordate ancestors.
- The development of limb buds in vertebrate embryos is a recapitulation of the evolutionary history of tetrapods, as they are a precursor to the formation of limbs in these animals.
- The presence of a dorsal hollow nerve cord in vertebrate embryos is a recapitulation of the evolutionary history of chordates, as it is a characteristic that was present in the earliest chordate ancestors.
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Meaning 2
(music) the section of a composition or movement (especially in sonata form) in which musical themes that were introduced earlier are repeated.
Classification
Nouns denoting communicative processes and contents.
Examples
- The recapitulation of the sonata's first theme was marked by a dramatic increase in volume and intensity.
- In the recapitulation, the composer wove together fragments of the exposition's themes in a complex and innovative way.
- The recapitulation section of the symphony was notable for its use of counterpoint and intricate harmonies.
- The recapitulation of the rondo's theme was accompanied by a lively orchestral accompaniment that added to the overall sense of energy and momentum.
- The composer's use of fragmentation and recombination in the recapitulation created a sense of tension and release that was characteristic of the entire movement.
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Meaning 3
A summary at the end that repeats the substance of a longer discussion.
Classification
Nouns denoting communicative processes and contents.
Examples
- The professor concluded her lecture with a recapitulation of the key points, ensuring that her students understood the main arguments.
- At the end of the meeting, the team leader provided a recapitulation of the decisions made and the tasks assigned to each member.
- The author's recapitulation of the plot at the end of the novel helped to clarify the complex relationships between the characters.
- The instructor's recapitulation of the lesson plan at the end of the semester helped students review the material for the final exam.
- The moderator's recapitulation of the debate highlights at the end of the program allowed viewers to reflect on the key issues discussed.
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Meaning 4
(music) the repetition of themes introduced earlier (especially when one is composing the final part of a movement).
Classification
Nouns denoting acts or actions.
Examples
- In classical sonatas, a typical development leads back to a recapitulation of the first theme.
- The second movement's recapitulation is set in the tonic key, providing a sense of resolution.
- A recapitulation of the exposition material provides a satisfying conclusion to the rondo.
- The recapitulation's return to the opening theme is heralded by a dramatic pause in the music.
- After a turbulent development section, the recapitulation brings a sense of calm to the music.