D defs.my
Entry 7 senses · 3 variants Webster, 1913

Phrase

/frāz/ · IPA /fɹeɪz/
01 n. A brief expression, sometimes a single word, but usually two or more words forming an expression by themselves, or being a portion of a sen…
  1. 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.
    ““Convey” the wise it call. “Steal!” foh! a fico for the phrase.” Shak.
  2. 2.
    A short, pithy expression; especially, one which is often employed; a peculiar or idiomatic turn of speech; as, to err is human.
  3. 3.
    A mode or form of speech; the manner or style in which any one expreses himself; diction; expression.
    “Thou speak'st In better phrase and matter than thou didst.” Shak.
  4. 4.
    A short clause or portion of a period.(Mus.)
Phrases & compounds
Phrase book — a book of idiomatic phrases.
02 v. t. To express in words, or in peculiar words; to call; to style.
imp. & p. p. Phrased; p. pr. & vb. n. Phrasing
  1. 1.
    To express in words, or in peculiar words; to call; to style.
03 v. i. To use proper or fine phrases.
  1. 1.
    To use proper or fine phrases.[R.]
  2. 2.
    To group notes into phrases; as, he phrases well. See Phrase, n., 4.(Mus.) See: Phrase