opera
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Definition of opera
(Entry 1 of 2)
plural of opus
opera
nounDefinition of opera (Entry 2 of 2)
1 : a drama set to music and made up of vocal pieces with orchestral accompaniment and orchestral overtures (see overture entry 1 sense 2) and interludes (see interlude sense 3) specifically : grand opera Beethoven composed only one opera.
2 : the score (see score entry 1 sense 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.
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The first known use of opera was in 1848
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