Vibrato: meaning, definitions and examples

Often used in music to describe a technique where the pitch of a note is quickly wobbled to produce a rich, warm sound.

• The violinist added a beautiful vibrato to enhance the emotional depth of the piece.
• She used vibrato to make the notes sound more expressive.

Used in music to describe a rapid repetition of a single note or alternating between two notes, creating a trembling effect. It's common in string and keyboard instruments.

• The pianist's tremolo added a thrilling intensity to the performance.
• She played a dramatic tremolo on her guitar, making the song more dynamic.

Typically used in music to denote a specific note length, which is an eighth note in standard notation. It can also refer to a trembling sound in someone's voice, often due to emotion or nervousness.

• The piece started with a series of quick quavers, setting a lively tempo.
• His voice quavered with emotion as he delivered the speech.

Used primarily in music to describe a slight, rapid variation in pitch to enhance the sound of a note. Commonly used in singing, string instruments, and brass instruments.

• The violinist's use of vibrato added emotional depth to the solo.
• Her beautiful vibrato could be heard in every note she sang.

Describes a quavering or melodic series of sounds, often used to describe birdsong. Can also refer to a similar effect in the human voice or certain musical instruments, but generally has a more natural, less refined connotation.

• The canary's warble filled the room with cheerful sounds.
• He tried to sing, but his voice warbled uncontrollably.

Refers to a musical ornament consisting of the rapid alternation between two adjacent notes. Often used in various forms of classical music.

• The pianist executed the trill at the end of the piece flawlessly.
• The bird's song was full of delightful trills.