opus

[oh-puhs]

noun

plural

opuses, opera 

1. a musical composition.

2. one of the compositions of a composer, usually numbered according to the order of publication.

3. a literary work or composition, as a book: op.

   Have you read her latest opus?

opus

/ ˈəʊpəs, ˈɔp- /

noun

1. an artistic composition, esp a musical work

2. (often capital) (usually followed by a number) a musical composition by a particular composer, generally catalogued in order of publication

   Beethoven's opus 61 is his violin concerto

Word History and Origins

Origin of opus¹

1695–1705; < Latin: work, labor, a work

Word History and Origins

Origin of opus¹

C18: from Latin: a work; compare Sanskrit apas work

Example Sentences

In 1966, Wilson led The Beach Boys in the production of "Pet Sounds," the magnum opus that elevated the group’s stature for all time.

From Salon

It’s a magnum opus from the culinary icon behind Kogi, “L.A. Son,” and “The Chef Show” — a book built on balance and compassion.

From Salon

It’s immediately evident that Gaga is in the middle of performing her live opus, a show that may very well come to be recognized as her greatest.

From Salon

And Swift has spoken in the past about how losing album of the year for Red inspired her pop opus, and biggest-seller to date, 1989.

From BBC

I think part of the nature of a fourth album of four is that it’s going to be a bit of an opus to what I’ve learned in the last 10 years of making music.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• magnum opus