noun

recitative

res-ih-tuh-TEEV

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Recitative (noun) means a style of singing in opera and similar works that follows the rhythm of ordinary speech, often with light accompaniment, and is used to carry the plot forward. Example: “The recitative moved the story along before the soprano launched into her big aria.”

noun

technical A style of singing in opera and similar works that follows the rhythm of ordinary speech, often with light accompaniment, and is used to carry the plot forward.

"The recitative moved the story along before the soprano launched into her big aria."

"In Baroque opera, recitative was often backed by nothing more than a harpsichord."

"The singers switched between recitative and aria throughout the second act."

How to use recitative

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishRecitative is the sung, speech-like part of an opera that carries the story between the big musical numbers.

When to use it

Recitative is a specialist musical term, mainly used when discussing opera and vocal music.

Memory tip

Listen for the difference: recitative sounds closer to speech, while an aria sounds like a proper song.

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Common pairings

sung recitative recitative and aria accompanied recitative harpsichord continuo in recitative

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C2 · Advanced serendipity Fortunate discoveries made entirely by accident.

Gen Z slang rizz Charm — the ability to attract a romantic interest.

B2 · Intermediate empathy The capacity to share another person’s feelings.

C1 · Advanced nonchalant Casually calm and relaxed; unconcerned.

Internet slang delulu Delusional — believing something against the odds.

Etymology nostalgia Greek nostos “return home” + algos “pain”.

C2 · Advanced serendipity Fortunate discoveries made entirely by accident.

Gen Z slang rizz Charm — the ability to attract a romantic interest.

B2 · Intermediate empathy The capacity to share another person’s feelings.

C1 · Advanced nonchalant Casually calm and relaxed; unconcerned.

Internet slang delulu Delusional — believing something against the odds.

Etymology nostalgia Greek nostos “return home” + algos “pain”.

Test yourself on “recitative” A quick quiz — meaning, synonyms & usage →

Fill the gap

Can you complete this real example?

The _____ moved the story along before the soprano launched into her big aria.

Etymology

Recitative comes from the Italian recitativo, which derives from recitare, itself from the Latin recito.

Origin: Italian

Rhymes for recitative

five give dive live olive drive alive dative endive strive derive active

See all rhymes for recitative →

Frequently asked questions

What is recitative in opera?

It is sung dialogue that follows the natural rhythm of speech rather than a set melody, usually with simple accompaniment, and it is used to move the plot along.

How is recitative different from an aria?

Recitative follows speech-like rhythms and serves the story, while an aria is a fuller, more melodic set piece for a single voice.

What instrument typically accompanies recitative?

A harpsichord playing continuo is a traditional accompaniment for recitative.

What is the meaning of recitative?

"recitative" (noun) means a style of singing in opera and similar works that follows the rhythm of ordinary speech, often with light accompaniment, and is used to carry the plot forward.