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ridotto

noun

ri·​dot·​to ri-ˈdä-(ˌ)tō How to pronounce ridotto (audio)
plural ridottos
: a public entertainment consisting of music and dancing often in masquerade popular in 18th century England

Word History

Etymology

Italian, retreat, place of entertainment, redoubt — more at redoubt

First Known Use

1722, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of ridotto was in 1722

Cite this Entry

“Ridotto.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/ridotto. Accessed 7 Dec. 2025.

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