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unvocal

American  
[uhn-voh-kuhl] / ʌnˈvoʊ kəl /

adjective

  1. not outspoken; reserved; not eloquent in speech; inarticulate.

  2. not mellifluous, as the speaking voice.

  3. not melodious; unmusical.

    unvocal attempts at writing art songs.


Etymology

Origin of unvocal

First recorded in 1765–75; un- 1 + vocal

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.

Jerky approximations quickly end In void unvocal chasms.

From Punch, or the London Charivari, Vol. 98 February 15, 1890 by Various

The very word cantabile emphasizes, by antithesis, the unvocal character of the old florid style.

From Chopin and Other Musical Essays by Finck, Henry Theophilus

Even in the 'sixties, when nothing later than Lohengrin was known, the charge was brought against the composer that his music was unvocal and could not be sung —the Mastersingers was his answer.

From Richard Wagner Composer of Operas by Runciman, John F.

The change in public opinion is strikingly illustrated in regard to the songs, which, once voted ineffective and unvocal, have now taken a place in every eminent singer’s repertory.

From Encyclopaedia Britannica, 11th Edition, Volume 4, Slice 4 "Bradford, William" to "Brequigny, Louis" by Various

In the second-story front room at Mrs. McKee's, the barytone slept heavily, and made divers unvocal sounds.

From K by Rinehart, Mary Roberts