falsetto
falsetto Lexical Profile
falsetto Game Scores & Validity
• noun
A method of voice production used by male singers, especially tenors, to sing notes higher than their normal chest register.
"The lead singer transitioned effortlessly into a clear, ringing falsetto during the chorus."
A person who sings in a vocal register above their normal range.
"The choir director auditioned two skilled falsettos for the Renaissance motet."
• adjective
Sung, spoken, or produced in a vocal register higher than the natural voice.
"The comedian used a high, falsetto voice to imitate the cartoon character."
• adverb
In a vocal register above the normal range; using a falsetto voice.
"He sang the final verse falsetto to match the original recording."
• Rhymes for falsetto
Word Origin & Etymology
Borrowed in the late 18th century from Italian 'falsetto', the diminutive of 'falso' (meaning 'false'), from Latin 'falsus'. It originally referred to a 'little false' voice produced above the natural vocal range.