jazz singer

American  

noun

1. a singer whose vocal technique is similar to that of a musical instrument, and whose singing has a strong jazz feeling, chiefly imparted through phrasing, melodic improvisation, and rhythmic subtlety.

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Etymology

Origin of jazz singer

First recorded in 1925–30

Example Sentences

See Examples For:

jazz singer

When a mostly unknown, 21-year-old Ms. Salvant arrived at the Thelonious Monk International Jazz Vocals Competition in 2010 and won, she seemed primed to become her generation’s great jazz singer.

From The Wall Street Journal ● Jul. 11, 2026

Her chances look slim, though, with stronger albums by Lady Gaga, Elton John & Brandi Carlile, and Icelandic jazz singer Laufey all in the running.

From BBC ● Jan. 31, 2026

Diana Ross made an auspicious feature acting debut in this sprawling biopic about the hardships and triumphs of celebrated jazz singer Billie Holiday.

From Los Angeles Times ● Oct. 23, 2025

“My mother was a jazz singer and dancer,” Zollar said.

From New York Times ● Jun. 17, 2024

Sure enough, the famous jazz singer is sitting at the bar.

From "X: A Novel" by Ilyasah Shabazz