Definition

Noun: 1. A very deep bass voice: A basso profundo is the lowest male singing voice, characterized by an exceptionally deep, rich, and resonant vocal range. It is a specific category within the bass voice type.

Usage

The term is used to describe a singer's voice type or the vocal part written for such a voice in choral or operatic music. * The choir director was thrilled to find a true basso profundo for the requiem. * The aria requires a basso profundo capable of reaching the lowest notes on the score.

Advanced Usage

• The term is often used in Italian, reflecting its origins in classical music terminology, and is sometimes italicized in English texts: .
• It can be used metaphorically to describe any exceptionally deep sound.
  • The basso profundo of the foghorn echoed across the harbor.

Variants and Related Words

• Bass (noun): The general category of the lowest male singing voice, of which is the deepest subtype.
• Profundo (adjective, from Italian/Spanish): Meaning "deep," used in musical contexts (e.g., in Spanish).

Synonyms

• Deep bass
• Low bass

Related Phrases

• Basso voice: A more general term for a bass singing voice.
• Basso continuo: A different musical term referring to a continuous bass part in Baroque music (not a voice type).

Noun

1. a very deep bass voice