Dictionary
1opera
2opera
noun op·era \ˈä-p(ə-)rə, Southern also ˈä-prē\
: a kind of performance in which actors sing all or most of the words of a play with music performed by an orchestra
: a show in which opera is performed
: a group of actors who perform operas together
Full Definition of OPERA
1
: a drama set to music and made up of vocal pieces with orchestral accompaniment and orchestral overtures and interludes; specifically : grand opera
2
: the score of a musical drama
3
: the performance of an opera; also : a house where operas are performed
See opera defined for English-language learners
Origin of OPERA
Italian, work, opera, from Latin, work, pains; akin to Latin oper-, opus — more at operate
First Known Use: 1644
OPERA Defined for Kids
opera
noun op·era \ˈä-pə-rə, ˈä-prə\
Definition of OPERA for Kids
: a play in which the entire text is sung with orchestral accompaniment
Learn More About OPERA
Browse
Next Word in the Dictionary: opéra balletPrevious Word in the Dictionary: opepeAll Words Near: opera
ADVERTISEMENT
Seen & Heard
What made you want to look up opera? Please tell us where you read or heard it (including the quote, if possible).