vibrato
noun
vi·bra·to
vi-ˈbrä-(ˌ)tō 
vī-
plural vibratos
: a slightly tremulous effect imparted to vocal or instrumental tone for added warmth and expressiveness by slight and rapid variations in pitch
Examples of vibrato in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
Inside his brilliance lies a complex vibrato, leading to the richest of articulated vocals, even some soulful deviation that lean towards hints of melisma.
—
David John Chávez, Mercury News, 1 June 2026
Anjimile has never been in better voice, his breezy vibrato falling in the glorious shade between Sufjan Stevens and Cocteau Twins’ Elizabeth Fraser.
—Ben Cardew, Pitchfork, 20 Mar. 2026
Meanwhile, Malo’s vibrato vocal and magnetic stage presence won the band critical acclaim and fans across the world — plus the respect of their peers, many of whom were present at the Ryman Friday night.
—Chris Parton, Rolling Stone, 6 Dec. 2025
With an earthy vibrato and dark timbre reminiscent of Amy Winehouse, Keable primarily blends two formative musical eras in her work: the storytelling of ‘70s R&B and the melodic vocal stacks and rhythmic cadences of ‘00s R&B.
—Kyle Denis, Billboard, 17 Nov. 2025
See All Example Sentences for vibrato
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David John Chávez, Mercury News, 1 June 2026
Anjimile has never been in better voice, his breezy vibrato falling in the glorious shade between Sufjan Stevens and Cocteau Twins’ Elizabeth Fraser.
—Ben Cardew, Pitchfork, 20 Mar. 2026
Meanwhile, Malo’s vibrato vocal and magnetic stage presence won the band critical acclaim and fans across the world — plus the respect of their peers, many of whom were present at the Ryman Friday night.
—Chris Parton, Rolling Stone, 6 Dec. 2025
With an earthy vibrato and dark timbre reminiscent of Amy Winehouse, Keable primarily blends two formative musical eras in her work: the storytelling of ‘70s R&B and the melodic vocal stacks and rhythmic cadences of ‘00s R&B.
—Kyle Denis, Billboard, 17 Nov. 2025
See All Example Sentences for vibrato
Cite this Entry
“Vibrato.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/vibrato. Accessed 5 Jun. 2026.
Copy CitationKids Definition
vibrato
noun
vi·bra·to
vi-ˈbrät-ō
vī-
plural vibratos
: a slightly trembling effect given to vocal or instrumental tone by slight and rapid variations in pitch
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