vibrato

Estimated CEFR level: C2 — Proficiency

Estimated from word frequency; not an official CEFR classification.

Definition

noun (music) a pulsating effect in an instrumental or vocal tone produced by slight and rapid variations in pitch

Borrowed from Italian vibrato m, past participle of vibrare (“to vibrate”).

Aethiopas vicini sideris vapore torreri, adustisque similes gigni, barba et capillo vibrato, non est dubium. — The Anabasis of Alexander : $b or, The history of the wars and conquests of Alexander the Great, Arrian
"You're not very happy, are you?" he ventured, in a voice with just the slightest trace of vibrato in it. — The Prairie Mother, Arthur Stringer
Old Glynn he knew how to make that instrument talk, the vibrato: fifty pounds a year they say he had in Gardiner street. — Ulysses, James Joyce

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