WordValefalsetto
a male voice singing above its normal range
In more detail
1. (noun) a singing voice that is higher than a man's natural voice, produced by using only part of the vocal cords
2. (noun) a man who sings with a falsetto voice
Examples
- 1. The singer switched to falsetto to hit the high notes in the song.
- 2. He is a talented falsetto who performs in the choir.
How to use falsetto
Falsetto refers to a vocal technique where male singers produce notes higher than their natural range by using only part of their vocal cords, creating a characteristically thin or breathy quality. It is commonly used in classical music, opera, and popular music genres ranging from soul to pop. The term can denote either the technique itself or the person employing it.
Common phrases
- hit a falsetto
- sing in falsetto
- falsetto voice
- falsetto register
- break into falsetto
Synonyms
head voice · countertenor
Word family
falsettos (plural)
A common mistake
Learners sometimes confuse falsetto with a naturally high voice or with simply singing high notes; falsetto is specifically an artificial extension of range using a particular vocal mechanism, not just any high singing.
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