Definition of: descant

(des′kant) noun
1. The act of discussing; a series of remarks.
2. Music a A varied melody or song. b Formerly, an ornamental variation of the main subject or song. c A counterpoint above the plain song. d The composition or singing of such counterpoint or variations. e The upper part in part music, especially the soprano.
—v.t. (des·kant′, dis-)
1. To discourse at length; hold forth: with on or upon.
2. To make a descant; sing. Also spelled discant. [<AF <Med. L discantus <L dis- away + cantus a song <canere sing]