recitative

noun

rec·​i·​ta·​tive ˌre-sə-tə-ˈtēv How to pronounce recitative (audio)
ˌre-stə-
1
: a rhythmically free vocal style that imitates the natural inflections of speech and that is used for dialogue and narrative in operas and oratorios
also : a passage to be delivered in this style
2
recitative adjective

Examples of recitative in a Sentence

the second recitative of Act II The opera made use of recitative.
Recent Examples on the Web The convention began to break down with Wagner, who expanded recitative to epic proportions. Alex Ross, The New Yorker, 29 July 2024 Librettists supplied composers with heaps of verse for arias and other vocal numbers, alongside chunks of prose recitative that allowed for interstitial exposition. Alex Ross, The New Yorker, 29 July 2024 French opera at the end of the 17th century had not yet become codified with recitatives and arias. Mark Swed, Los Angeles Times, 13 Dec. 2023 Even in a simple recitative, said Ludwig, a world of understanding was in her voice. Jay Nordlinger, National Review, 29 Nov. 2023 See all Example Sentences for recitative 

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'recitative.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

Etymology

Italian recitativo, from recitare to recite, from Latin

First Known Use

1654, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of recitative was in 1654

Dictionary Entries Near recitative

Cite this Entry

“Recitative.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/recitative. Accessed 9 Oct. 2024.

Kids Definition

recitative

noun
rec·​i·​ta·​tive ˌres-(ə-)tə-ˈtēv How to pronounce recitative (audio)
: a style of singing without a fixed rhythm that imitates speech and is used sometimes in operas and oratorios
also : a passage in this style
recitative adjective

More from Merriam-Webster on recitative

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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