tenor
Tenor (noun) means a male singing voice higher than baritone and bass, or a singer with that voice. Example: “The tenor hit a stunning high note in the final act.”
How to use tenor
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishEither the high male singing voice, or the general mood/direction of a conversation or piece of writing.
Word forms
tenors plural
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
The _____ hit a stunning high note in the final act.
Etymology
From Latin tenor ("course, continuance, holder"), from tenere ("to hold") — in music, named for the voice that "holds" the main melody.
Synonyms
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Rhymes for tenor
See all rhymes for tenor →Frequently asked questions
What does “tenor” mean?
The word “tenor” means a male singing voice higher than baritone and bass, or a singer with that voice. In plain terms, either the high male singing voice, or the general mood/direction of a conversation or piece of writing.
How do you pronounce “tenor”?
“Tenor” is pronounced TEH-nuh (/ˈtɛnə(ɹ)/ in IPA).
How do you use “tenor” in a sentence?
Here is “tenor” used in a sentence: “The tenor hit a stunning high note in the final act.”
What part of speech is “tenor”?
“Tenor” is a noun.
Where does the word “tenor” come from?
The word “tenor” comes from Latin. From Latin tenor ("course, continuance, holder"), from tenere ("to hold") — in music, named for the voice that "holds" the main melody.
Is “tenor” a common word?
“Tenor” is an uncommon word in modern English.
How many meanings does “tenor” have?
“Tenor” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: a male singing voice higher than baritone and bass, or a singer with that voice.