Definition of recitative
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 : recitation 2
recitative
adjectiveFrom the M-W Editors
Examples of recitative in a Sentence
the second recitative of Act II
The opera made use of recitative.
Origin and Etymology of recitative
Italian recitativo, from recitare to recite, from Latin
First Known Use: 1654
RECITATIVE Defined for English Language Learners
recitative
playDefinition of recitative for English Language Learners
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music : a passage in vocal music (such as an opera) in which the words are sung in a way that resembles speech
Learn More about recitative
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See words that rhyme with recitative Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about recitative
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