ENGLISH
REFERENCE

soprano

n. countable
B2 Upper Intermediate US //səˈpɹænoʊ// UK //səpɹˈɑːnəʊ// so·pra·no

n. the highest singing voice for women or young boys. It also refers to a person who sings in this high range.

n. the highest category of singing voice, typically possessing a range from middle C to high C. Refers both to the vocal range itself and to a singer who performs within it.


SIMPLE

She is the lead soprano in the local choir.

CONTEXTUAL

The composer wrote a challenging solo specifically for a coloratura soprano with an exceptionally high range.

COMPLEX

While the choir features several talented vocalists, the clarity and power of the lead soprano allow her voice to soar above the orchestral accompaniment during the finale.

Synonyms
Origin

Borrowed from Italian soprano, from Vulgar Latin *superānus, adjective from preposition Latin super (“above”). Doublet of sovereign, from the same Latin root via Old French.

Usage

Often used as a modifier before other nouns, such as 'soprano sax' or 'soprano aria'.

Idioms2 entries

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