Definition & Meaning of "double whole note"

What is a "double whole note"?

A double whole note, also known as a breve, is a musical symbol that represents a duration of eight beats in common time. It is depicted as a hollow circle with a double bar on each side. In written music, a double whole note is held for twice the length of a whole note, providing a sustained sound that lasts for two measures in a 4/4 time signature. It is used less frequently than other note values but serves to create longer, more drawn-out rhythms and melodies in compositions.