Fauxbourdon
(foe-bor-DOE(H)N)


[Fr., false bass]

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1. In plainsong, this term implies simple three part harmony, the plainsong being the top voice, and the two other voices each, respectively, a sixth and a fourth below the plainsong. This practice may have evolved from the English faburden, or vice-versa.
2. Simple harmonization of plainsong in four parts with no polyphonic elaboration.
3. In hymn singing, a fauxbourdon is a treble descant superimposed upon the melody sung by the congregation.

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