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

She sang open-throated declarations, recited broken poetic verses, scatted with the authority of a jazz singer, moaned with bluesy intent, and occasionally let loose an unbridled shriek or giggle.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 4, 2026

With her electric green eyes, corkscrew hair and husky contralto voice, Dame Cleo became the most recognisable British jazz singer in history.

From BBC • Jul. 25, 2025

The Keeler House: In 1990 modernist architect Ray Kappe remodeled a home for jazz singer Anne Keeler and her then-husband, Gordon Melcher.

From Los Angeles Times • Jan. 11, 2025

The jazz singer Andromeda Turre will perform with the band.

From New York Times • May 30, 2024

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

From "X: A Novel" by Ilyasah Shabazz