canto

[kan-toh]

noun

plural

cantos 

1. one of the main or larger divisions of a long poem.

canto

/ ˈkæntəʊ /

noun

1. music another word for cantus

2. a main division of a long poem

Word History and Origins

Origin of canto¹

1580–90; < Italian < Latin cant ( us ) singing, song, equivalent to can ( ere ) to sing + -tus suffix of v. action; cant ¹, chant

Word History and Origins

Origin of canto¹

C16: from Italian: song, from Latin cantus, from canere to sing

Example Sentences

Later observers, such as the opera critic Henry Pleasants, have noted the bel canto qualities of his singing.

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

The score calls for a large cast with serious bel canto skills, and Opera Philadelphia’s lineup delivered.

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

Riccardo Frizza’s fluid conducting drew out the score’s long bel canto lines and limned its propulsive rhythmic structure, and his flexible support of the singers made every aria and ensemble breathe and soar.

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

Michael, the default English department heartthrob who satisfies his artistic longings by publishing book-long cantos, isn’t fated for such greatness.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

“Barber” is one of the most famous operas written in the bel canto style.

Read more on Seattle Times