Definition

Noun 1. A female singing voice that is lower than soprano but higher than contralto; the middle range of the female singing voice. 2. A singer, typically a woman, who possesses such a voice.

Usage

The word "mezzo" is most commonly used as a shortened form of "mezzo-soprano." It specifically refers to a vocal range and the singers who perform in that range. It is a standard term in classical music, opera, and choral settings.

Examples

• The role of Carmen is famously sung by a mezzo.
• Her voice is not quite a soprano; she is a mezzo.
• The composer wrote a beautiful aria for the mezzo in the second act.

Advanced Usage

• "Mezzo" as a prefix: While "mezzo" alone refers to the voice, it can also function as a prefix meaning "medium" or "half." However, this usage is almost always part of a compound term (see Variants).
• In musical scores, the abbreviation "mz." or "mez." may be used.

Variants and Related Words

• Mezzo-soprano (n.): The full term for the voice type or singer. This is the most common compound form.
• Mezzo-forte (adv. & adj.): A musical direction meaning "moderately loud." (Abbreviation: )
• Mezzo-piano (adv. & adj.): A musical direction meaning "moderately soft." (Abbreviation: )
• Mezzo-rilievo (n.): In sculpture, a medium relief.

Synonyms

• Mezzo-soprano (the direct, full synonym)

Antonyms

• Soprano (the higher female voice)
• Contralto (the lower female voice; also called )

Notes

• The term "mezzo" is almost exclusively used within a musical context. In everyday conversation, the full term "mezzo-soprano" is more common for clarity.
• It is incorrect to use "mezzo" to describe a male voice; the equivalent male voice is a baritone.

Noun

1. the female singing voice between contralto and soprano
2. a soprano with a voice between soprano and contralto