vocalism

noun

vo·​cal·​ism ˈvō-kə-ˌli-zəm How to pronounce vocalism (audio)
1
a
: the vowel system of a language or dialect
b
: the pattern of vowels in a word or paradigm
2
3
: vocal art or technique : singing

Examples of vocalism in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web As the program stretched toward the light, Tines unveiled several feats of vocalism, each more staggering than the last. Globe Staff, BostonGlobe.com, 28 Apr. 2023 What emerges is a feast of vocalism from four multidimensional characters — played by women — who go through epic transformation, and two stock-character men who don’t. Los Angeles Times, 5 Nov. 2021 Sure enough, Ailyn Pérez’s Tatyana threatens to steal the show, with dazzling vocalism and diva ambition. Scott Cantrell, Dallas News, 18 June 2021 Expect immaculate vocalism and a canny mix of old favorites and newer compositions. Star Tribune, 20 Nov. 2020 His rhythms have been fudged; his operas have become occasions for vulgar high-note battles rather than displays of refinement, subtle vocalism and meticulous wedding of text and music. Zachary Woolfe, New York Times, 23 June 2019 For Mork, a former choral singer, vocalism is indelibly integrated with his cello playing. BostonGlobe.com, 12 Oct. 2019 One of those singers was mezzo-soprano Kindra Scharich, whose velvety vocalism illuminated the kindly character of Dodo in this bracing tale of faith and repression. Georgia Rowe, The Mercury News, 20 Aug. 2019 His entrance aria was pure vocal gold, while his ardent Arturo dominated the third act with one virtuosic feat of vocalism after another. John Von Rhein, chicagotribune.com, 5 Feb. 2018

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

Word History

First Known Use

1821, in the meaning defined at sense 2

Time Traveler
The first known use of vocalism was in 1821

Dictionary Entries Near vocalism

Cite this Entry

“Vocalism.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/vocalism. Accessed 26 Apr. 2024.

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