opera
Definition of opera
plural of opus
People Are Reading
Definition of opera
1 : a drama set to music and made up of vocal pieces with orchestral accompaniment and orchestral overtures (see 1overture 2) and interludes (see interlude 3); specifically : grand opera Beethoven composed only one opera.
2 : the score (see 1score 6) of a musical drama The composer finished the opera in just six weeks.
3 : the performance of an opera The opera was delayed a half hour due to technical difficulties.; also : a house where operas are performed We'll meet you at the opera at 7 p.m.
Examples of opera in a Sentence
I am going to an opera tonight.
Origin and Etymology of opera
Italian, work, opera, from Latin, work, pains; akin to Latin oper-, opus — more at operate
First Known Use: 1848
OPERA Defined for English Language Learners
opera
playDefinition of opera for English Language Learners
-
: a kind of performance in which actors sing all or most of the words of a play with music performed by an orchestra
-
: a show in which opera is performed
-
: a group of actors who perform operas together
OPERA Defined for Kids
opera
playDefinition of opera for Students
: a play in which the entire text is sung with orchestral accompaniment
Learn More about opera
-
Spanish Central: Translation of opera Nglish: Translation of opera for Spanish speakers Britannica English: Translation of opera for Arabic speakers Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about opera
Seen and Heard
What made you want to look up opera? Please tell us where you read or heard it (including the quote, if possible).
Writing? Check your grammar now!