noun
Uncommon
soprano
suh-PRA-noh
Soprano (noun) means the highest singing voice, typically sung by women or boys, or a piece written for that range. Example: “She trained for years to become a soprano at the opera house.”
noun
1
The highest singing voice, typically sung by women or boys, or a piece written for that range.
"She trained for years to become a soprano at the opera house."
2
A singer or instrument that performs in that highest range.
"I was only once faced with the task of auditioning a nimiety of sopranos."
— Denis Norden (2008)
"The soprano soloist received a standing ovation."
How to use soprano
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishThe highest singing voice or vocal part, or a singer who sings it.
Common pairings
soprano voice
lead soprano
soprano saxophone
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Word forms
- Plural
- sopranos, soprani, sopranoes
- Third person singular
- sopranos
- Past tense
- sopranoed
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
She trained for years to become a _____ at the opera house.
Etymology
From Italian soprano, "above" — from Latin super, "above" — because it is the highest vocal part. Related to the word "sovereign," which comes from the same Latin root by a different path.
Synonyms
View more →Related words
Rhymes for soprano
See all rhymes for soprano →Frequently asked questions
What does “soprano” mean?
The word “soprano” means the highest singing voice, typically sung by women or boys, or a piece written for that range. In plain terms, the highest singing voice or vocal part, or a singer who sings it.
How do you pronounce “soprano”?
“Soprano” is pronounced suh-PRA-noh (/səˈpɹænoʊ/ in IPA).
How do you use “soprano” in a sentence?
Here is “soprano” used in a sentence: “She trained for years to become a soprano at the opera house.”
What part of speech is “soprano”?
“Soprano” is a noun.
Where does the word “soprano” come from?
The word “soprano” comes from Latin. From Italian soprano, "above" — from Latin super, "above" — because it is the highest vocal part. Related to the word "sovereign," which comes from the same Latin root by a different path.
Is “soprano” a common word?
“Soprano” is an uncommon word in modern English.
How many meanings does “soprano” have?
“Soprano” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: the highest singing voice, typically sung by women or boys, or a piece written for that range.
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