Definition of nu

The word "nu" has its origins in Old Norse, an extinct language spoken by the Vikings in Scandinavia during the Middle Ages. In Old Norse, "nu" literally translates to "now" or "at this time," and it was used as a grammatical adjunct, indicating a present-tense verb form. Over time, "nu" evolved in the Scandinavian languages, eventually becoming "nu" in modern Danish and Norwegian, and "ny" (meaning "now" in modern Swedish). In Icelandic, "nu" remains a separate word, with its original meaning intact. In English, "nu" has been adopted as a musical term, primarily through the popularity of the jazz musician, George Russell. Russell coined the term "Modal Interchange," which he described as "nes advance modal nuclei" (a term he later condensed to "nu"). This term was used to describe a specific type of music, characterized by a focus on modal jazz structures (rather than chord progressions). The term "nu" has also gained popularity in recent years as the name of a music genre that originated in New Zealand during the 1990s. The style is characterized by its use of electronic instruments, sampling, and the integration of Maori and Pasifika musical elements. In this context, "nu" is used as a shortened version of the term "Patirerehockey," a Maori phrase that translates to "new hockey." In both musical contexts, the use of "nu" signals a departure from the traditional structures and conventions of the respective genres. It represents a new, innovative style, a sign of the constant evolution and adaptation of music.