n. Ecclesiastical 1. The last of the canonical hours, recited or sung just before retiring. 2. The time of day appointed for this service. [Middle English, alteration (probably influenced by matines, matins) of compli, from Old French complie, from Medieval Latin (hōra) complēta, final (hour), from Latin complētus, past participle of complēre, to complete; see COMPLETE.] |
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