# aria

/ˈɑɹiə/ (US) · /ˈeəɹiɐ/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/aria
Updated: 2026-08-15

## Senses

### 1. opera song

noun · CEFR B2

a long, beautiful song for one singer in an opera or similar musical work.

For teachers: a self-contained piece for one voice, typically with orchestral accompaniment, occurring in the context of an opera, oratorio, or cantata.

- The soprano received a standing ovation after singing her famous aria in the second act.
- The composer used the opening aria to establish the protagonist's emotional state before the plot's primary conflict was introduced.

Usage: Usually countable; often described by the voice type required, such as a 'tenor aria'.

## Examples

- She sang a beautiful aria from the opera.
- The soprano delivered a powerful aria that brought the audience to its feet.
- The composer's final aria serves as a poignant farewell, blending intricate vocal ornamentation with a sweeping orchestral climax.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.