Gestalt—definition

(From the Oxford English Dictionary, 2^nd Edition)

Gestalt, gestalt g<e>S'talt.

Etymology: G., = form, shape.

A 'shape', 'configuration', or 'structure' which as an object of perception forms a specific whole or unity incapable of expression simply in terms of its parts (e.g. a melody in distinction from the notes that make it up).