Songstress Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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songstress

[ˈsɔŋˌstrɛs ]

Definition

^{Context #1 | Noun}

music

A female singer, especially one who sings popular songs.

Synonyms

diva, singer, vocalist.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
songstress	Typically used to refer to female singers, especially those who have a poetic quality or charm. This word might be used in artistic or literary contexts. The songstress captivated the audience with her soulful melodies. She is a renowned songstress, known for her powerful ballads.
singer	A general term used for anyone who sings, whether professionally or as a hobby. It's a neutral and widely used word. He's a singer in a local band. The singer performed her latest hit at the concert.
vocalist	Commonly used in a more professional or technical context, often referring to someone who sings parts in a band or musical ensemble. It implies a role within a group. She's the lead vocalist of the rock band. The vocalist showcased an impressive range during the performance.
diva	Refers to a celebrated female singer, especially in opera, known for her talents and sometimes for her demanding personality. It can have a slightly negative or dramatic connotation. The opera diva demanded perfection from everyone around her. She acted like a true diva, always at the center of attention.

Examples of usage

She is known as a talented songstress in the music industry.
The young songstress captivated the audience with her powerful voice.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Music History

In the 20th century, songstresses such as Billie Holiday and Ella Fitzgerald revolutionized jazz music with their unique vocal styles.
The term is often associated with artists in various genres, including pop, jazz, and folk, indicating a wide range of musical influence.
Contemporary songstresses like Adele and Beyoncé have made significant cultural impacts and often address personal and social themes in their music.

Cultural Impact

The role of songstresses in society has evolved, from traditional balladeers in folk culture to influential figures in modern social movements.
Many songstresses use their platforms to advocate for causes such as equality, mental health awareness, and environmental issues.
Magazines and awards shows often celebrate songstresses, showcasing their contributions to music and empowering women in the industry.

Psychology

Listening to the voice of a talented songstress can evoke powerful emotional responses, enhancing mood and wellbeing.
Research indicates that songs sung by female vocalists are often perceived as more emotionally expressive, which can create a deeper connection with listeners.
Songstresses often draw upon personal experiences and emotions in their lyrics, allowing listeners to relate to them on a personal level.

Modern Usage

In social media, songstresses often share direct interactions with fans through platforms like Instagram and TikTok, allowing for a more intimate connection.
The term 'songstress' may also appear in branding, where a female artist’s persona shapes not just her music, but her entire artistic identity.
From indie artists to major pop stars, songstresses today can easily distribute their music online, reaching global audiences without traditional gatekeeping.

Origin of 'songstress'

Main points about word origin

The term 'songstress' first appeared in the English language in the early 19th century to describe professional female singers.
It combines 'song,' which originates from the Old English 'sang,' meaning 'to sing,' with the suffix '-stress,' indicating a female performer.
A similar term, 'songster,' refers to male singers and emphasizes the gender distinction in the art of singing.

The term 'songstress' originated in the late 18th century, combining the words 'song' and 'stress' to refer to a female singer. It gained popularity in the music industry to specifically highlight female vocalists who perform popular songs.

See also: song, songbird, songs, songster, songwriter.