How Do You Spell LIBRETTO?

Pronunciation: [lɪbɹˈɛtə͡ʊ] (IPA)

The word libretto (/lɪˈbrɛtəʊ/) is of Italian origin and refers to the text of an opera or other musical work. It is spelled with two 't's despite the fact that the Italian word, from which it is derived, only has one. The spelling with two t's is due to the influence of French, as the French word for libretto is livret, and French is the language of the international opera scene. Therefore, the spelling has been anglicized to include the additional 't'.

LIBRETTO Meaning and Definition

1. Libretto is a noun that refers to the text or script of an opera, musical, or other large-scale vocal composition. It typically includes the dialogue, lyrics, and stage directions, serving as a guide for the performers and providing a narrative framework for the music. The libretto is written by a librettist or a playwright specifically for a particular composition, and it is an essential component in bringing the work to life on stage.

   In opera, the libretto serves as the foundation of the performance, merging the dramatic elements with musical compositions. It not only outlines the characters and their relationships but also sets the scenes, provides stage directions, and conveys the emotional tone of each moment. The libretto’s purpose is to connect the audience with the music and the story being told, allowing them to engage with the narrative and understand the intentions behind the melodies.

   Furthermore, a well-crafted libretto should strike a balance between lyrical poetry and dramatic coherence, ensuring that the text not only complements the musical score but also enhances the audience's understanding and enjoyment of the performance. It is a collaborative effort between the composer and the librettist, requiring an intricate understanding of both the musical and dramatic elements involved.

   In summary, a libretto is the written text of an opera or musical composition that contains the dialogue, lyrics, and stage directions. It serves as the guiding script for the performers and connects the music with the dramatic events, allowing for a cohesive and engaging performance.

2. A book having the words of an opera or other extensive plece of music; the words themselves.

   Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.

Common Misspellings for LIBRETTO

• loretto
• librety
• liberetto
• libreto
• Aligretto
• Tibbette
• Larrgetto
• Libbett

Etymology of LIBRETTO

The word "libretto" is derived from the Italian language. It comes from the word "libro", which means "book" in Italian. The suffix "-etto" indicates a diminutive form, so "libretto" translates to "little book" or "small book" in Italian. This name refers to the booklet or small book that contains the text or script of an opera, oratorio, or other musical compositions. The term has been used since the early 18th century to describe the text part of a musical composition, specifically in the context of opera.

Similar spelling words for LIBRETTO

• librettist,
• lip-read,
• libration,
• librate,
• liberator,
• liberate,
• liebert.

Plural form of LIBRETTO is LIBRETTI OR LIBRETTOS