Baritone Meaning and Definition
Baritone
Pronunciation
/ˈbærɪtoʊn/
Part of Speech
Noun
Definition
A male singing voice between a tenor and a bass, typically ranging from E2 to A2.
Examples
- The opera singer’s powerful baritone filled the auditorium.
- Baritone is a common vocal range for male singers in classical music.
Synonyms
- Tenor
- Bass
Antonyms
- Soprano
- Mezzo-soprano
Etymology
The term “baritone” originates from the Italian word “baritono,” which is derived from the Renaissance era term “barito,” meaning “sixth” or “sixth organ,” referring to the low range of the human voice.
Usage Notes
The term “baritone” is often used to describe a male singing voice, but it can also refer to other forms of vocal music, such as speeches or presentations.
Cultural References
Baritone has appeared in various forms of media, including opera, musical theater, and popular music, such as in the songs “Baritone” by Andy Williams and “Baritone” by Michael Bublé.
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
“Baritone” is often used as a synonym for “low-pitched” or “deep-voiced,” particularly in a musical context.
Related Words or Phrases
Other related terms include “tenor,” “bass,” and “counter-tenor.”
Collocations
Baritone is often used in combination with words like “voice,” “range,” “sound,” and “style.” For example, “He has a powerful baritone voice.”
Frequency of Use
Baritone is relatively rare in everyday conversation, but it is commonly used in musical contexts, particularly in relation to opera and classical music.
Common Misspellings
Common misspellings include “baritona” (for the female equivalent), “baritoneo” (Italian spelling), and “bareitone” (typo).