Definition

1. Noun:
   • A major division of a long poem: A "canto" is a principal section or subdivision of a long narrative or epic poem, functioning similarly to a chapter in a book.
   • The highest part (usually the melody) in a piece of choral music: In music, a "canto" refers to the leading, highest-pitched vocal line, typically carrying the main melody.

Examples of Usage

• Noun (Poetry):
  • Dante's "Inferno" is divided into 34 cantos.
  • The first canto of the epic poem introduces the hero's quest.
• Noun (Music):
  • The soprano sang the canto with great clarity.
  • In this choral piece, the canto is beautifully harmonized by the lower voices.

Advanced Usage

• "In canto": A phrase sometimes used in music to indicate a passage is to be sung in a melodic, song-like style.
  • The aria is marked "in canto," requiring a lyrical delivery.

Variants and Related Words

• Cantus (n): An older term, often synonymous with "canto," referring to a melody or song, especially in medieval and Renaissance music.
  • The cantus firmus is a pre-existing melody forming the basis of a polyphonic composition.

Synonyms

• Section, division, book (for poetry).
• Melody, treble, soprano line (for music).

Related Idioms

• None commonly associated directly with the word "canto."

Noun

1. a major division of a long poem
2. the highest part (usually the melody) in a piece of choral music