bel canto
Americannoun
noun
Etymology
Origin of bel canto
1890–95; < Italian: literally, fine singing, equivalent to bel (cognate with beau ) + canto ( see canto)
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
Like the two other bel canto works presented by the company so far this season—the new production of Bellini’s “La Sonnambula” and a revival of Donizetti’s “La Fille du Régiment”—it was luxuriously cast and conducted.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Jan. 2, 2026
Later observers, such as the opera critic Henry Pleasants, have noted the bel canto qualities of his singing.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Oct. 20, 2025
Translating literally from the Italian into “beautiful singing,” bel canto is all about “appreciating the voices first and foremost,” says Peleggi.
From Seattle Times ● Apr. 29, 2024
Born in New York in December 1923 to Greek parents, Callas was credited with reviving almost single-handedly the Italian bel canto vocal technique.
From Reuters ● Nov. 9, 2023
She had the real bel canto, understood the voice, how to use it and the best way to preserve it.
From Vocal Mastery Talks with Master Singers and Teachers by Brower, Harriette
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
