spinto soprano
- noun
- /ˈspɪn.toʊ səˈprɑː.noʊ/
- Specialized
:
soprano spinto
- The director chose a spinto soprano for the lead role to ensure the dramatic arias were sung with intensity and clarity.
Examples
-
During the opera, the spinto soprano delivered a stunning performance that showcased both her range and emotional depth.
-
Price, Leontyne (b. Laurel, Mississippi, 1927). Recognized as a spinto soprano with a sensuous tone.
Academic text (2003) -
Maria is a renowned spinto soprano, captivating audiences with her powerful yet melodic voice.
Synonyms
A voice or instrument that makes a high sound like a woman's singing voice
How Dramatic
- Specialized
- Specialized
- Specialized
- Specialized
Surface Forms
Morphology
spinto + soprano
The headword contains the non-English technical term 'spinto' (not found in the dictionary) combined with 'soprano'; while a learner who knows 'soprano' would infer it is a type of singer, the specific meaning — a voice combining lyric clarity with dramatic power — is a specialized, borrowed term and not predictable from the constituents. Because 'spinto' is not transparent to a B1 learner and the nuanced vocal quality cannot be derived from the parts, the expression is opaque.
Etymology
Spinto soprano comes from the Italian word spinto, which means 'pushed', and soprano, the highest female voice. Imagine a clear high voice being gently 'pushed' to add more power without strain; that's why a spinto soprano is a singer who can sing both 'lyric' high notes and more 'dramatic' loud moments.
