First Known Use: circa 1724
Dictionary
1alto
noun al·to \ˈal-(ˌ)tō\
music : a singing voice that is lower than the voice of a soprano and higher than the voice of a tenor; also : a singer having such a voice
plural altos
Full Definition of ALTO
1
a : countertenor b : contralto
2
: the second highest voice part in a 4-part chorus
3
: a member of a family of instruments having a range lower than that of the treble or soprano; especially : an alto saxophone
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Origin of ALTO
Italian, literally, high, from Latin altus
2alto
adjective
: having a range that is lower than a soprano and higher than a tenor
Full Definition of ALTO
: relating to or having the range or part of an alto
See alto defined for English-language learners
First Known Use of ALTO
circa 1724
ALTO Defined for Kids
alto
noun al·to \ˈal-tō\
plural altos
Definition of ALTO for Kids
1
: the lowest female singing voice
2
: the second highest part in harmony that has four parts
3
: a singer or an instrument having an alto range or part
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