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Vocalist Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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vocalist

[หˆvษ™สŠkษ™lษชst ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

music

A person who sings with the voice, especially a professional singer.

Synonyms

singer, soloist, songster.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
vocalist

This word is often used in formal settings, especially in the context of music genres like rock, jazz, or pop. It highlights the person who performs the vocal parts of a song.

  • The band's lead vocalist has an amazing range.
  • She is a talented jazz vocalist.
singer

A general term used in everyday language to refer to anyone who sings, regardless of the genre or setting.

  • She is a great singer and performs at local events.
  • He dreams of becoming a professional singer.
soloist

Used to describe someone who performs a song or a piece of music alone, without a group or band. Common in classical music and performances where individuals are highlighted.

  • The soloist received a standing ovation for her performance.
  • He was the featured soloist with the orchestra.
songster

An older or more poetic term that may sound archaic. It can refer to a singer, especially in folk music or traditional settings.

  • The old songster sang ballads from the past.
  • As a renowned songster, he has a vast repertoire of folk songs.

Examples of usage

  • The vocalist captivated the audience with her powerful voice.
  • The band's lead vocalist is known for his impressive range.
  • She started her career as a backup vocalist before becoming a solo artist.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Pop Culture

  • Famous vocalists like Whitney Houston and Freddie Mercury are celebrated for their powerful voices and emotional performances.
  • In modern music, vocalists often use technology, such as auto-tune, to enhance their sound and create unique effects.

Science of Singing

  • Singing involves complex interactions between the lungs, vocal cords, and mouth, producing various pitches and tones.
  • Research shows that singing can boost mental health by releasing endorphins, making people feel happier.

Historical Context

  • Throughout history, vocalists have played key roles in cultural traditions, from folk singing to opera.
  • In ancient civilizations, singing was a critical part of ceremonies and storytelling, often passed down through generations.

Literature

  • Songs have long been a source of inspiration in literature, often appearing in poems and stories to convey deep emotions.
  • Great literary works reference vocal talent, emphasizing the power of voice in expressing thoughts and feelings.

Origin of 'vocalist'

Main points about word origin

  • The term 'vocalist' comes from the Latin word 'vox,' meaning 'voice,' highlighting the importance of vocal sound.
  • It first appeared in English in the late 19th century, evolving from terms used to describe singers and their art.

The term 'vocalist' originated in the late 18th century from the word 'vocal' meaning 'pertaining to the voice'. It gained popularity in the music industry to specifically refer to a person who sings with the voice, distinguishing them from instrumentalists.

See also: multivocality, univocal, vocalese, vocalic, vocalization, vocalize, vocalized, vocalizer, vocalizing.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #25,816, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.