Countertenor: meaning, definitions and examples
๐ค
countertenor
[ kaสnหtษnษ ]
music
A countertenor is a male singer who sings in a falsetto voice, typically in the alto or soprano range. Countertenors are known for their unique vocal range and ability to sing in a high register.
Synonyms
falsettist, male alto, male soprano.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
Word | Description / Examples |
---|---|
countertenor |
This is a duplicate term here but has the same usage.
|
male alto |
Refers to a male singer whose voice is similar to the alto range, often used in choirs and classical music. This term is less specific and more general compared to 'countertenor.'
|
male soprano |
Describes a male singer who can sing in the soprano range, which is usually higher than the usual alto or tenor ranges. This term is rare and often used in specialized classical or early music contexts.
|
falsettist |
Describes a male singer who often uses a falsetto voice, which is a higher register different from his normal voice. Common in various music genres, including pop and rock.
|
Examples of usage
- He is a talented countertenor who can reach incredible high notes.
- The countertenor's performance was mesmerizing and haunting.
- The countertenor's voice soared effortlessly above the orchestra.
- The countertenor's falsetto added a beautiful ethereal quality to the music.
- The countertenor's aria left the audience in awe of his vocal prowess.
Translations
Translations of the word "countertenor" in other languages:
๐ต๐น contratenor
๐ฎ๐ณ เคเคพเคเคเคเคฐเคเฅเคจเคฐ
๐ฉ๐ช Countertenor
๐ฎ๐ฉ kontratenor
๐บ๐ฆ ะบะพะฝััะฐัะตะฝะพั
๐ต๐ฑ kontratenor
๐ฏ๐ต ใซใฆใณใฟใผใใใผ (kauntฤtenฤ)
๐ซ๐ท contre-tรฉnor
๐ช๐ธ contratenor
๐น๐ท kontrtenor
๐ฐ๐ท ์นด์ดํฐํ ๋ (kaunteoteneo)
๐ธ๐ฆ ูููุชุฑุชูููุฑ
๐จ๐ฟ kontratenor
๐ธ๐ฐ kontratenor
๐จ๐ณ ๅ็ท้ซ้ณ (fวn nรกn gฤo yฤซn)
๐ธ๐ฎ kontratenor
๐ฎ๐ธ kontratenรณr
๐ฐ๐ฟ ะบะพะฝััะฐัะตะฝะพั
๐ฌ๐ช แแแแขแ แขแแแแ แ (kontrtenori)
๐ฆ๐ฟ kontratenor
๐ฒ๐ฝ contratenor
Etymology
The term countertenor dates back to the 16th century, where it was used to describe a high male voice in choral music. Countertenors were particularly popular in the Baroque period, singing roles originally intended for castrati. Over the centuries, the countertenor voice has evolved and gained recognition as a distinct vocal type, prized for its unique timbre and agility.
Word Frequency Rank
At position #40,244, this word is among the less frequently used terms in English. While interesting to know, it's not crucial for most English learners unless needed for specific purposes.
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