ridotto

noun

ri·dot·to ri-ˈdä-(ˌ)tō

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

See more words from the same year

Cite this Entry

Style

“Ridotto.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/ridotto. Accessed 30 Oct. 2025.

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