WordValevibrato
a slight, rapid variation in pitch
In more detail
1. (noun) a slight, rapid variation in the loudness or pitch of a musical note, used to make the sound richer and more expressive
Examples
- The singer used vibrato to add emotion to the high notes.
How to use vibrato
Vibrato is a technical term used primarily in music and singing to describe an expressive technique where pitch or volume fluctuates slightly and rapidly. It is considered a mark of skilled performance and is discussed in formal musical contexts, voice lessons, and music theory. The term can be used both as a noun and attributively (vibrato effect, vibrato technique).
Common phrases
- add vibrato
- vibrato effect
- vibrato technique
- wide vibrato
- subtle vibrato
Synonyms
tremolo · modulation · wavering
Word family
vibrate · vibrant · vibratory · vibration
A common mistake
Learners often confuse vibrato with tremolo; vibrato is a variation in pitch, while tremolo is a variation in volume or amplitude.
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