light opera

noun

1. operetta.

light opera

noun

1. another term for operetta

Word History and Origins

Origin of light opera¹

An Americanism dating back to 1880–85

Example Sentences

She was already on the record as saying that she was “never happy” doing the “Rose of Persia” role: “It is no pleasure for me to sing in light opera.”

From Los Angeles Times

Outerwear consisted of light opera coats and black leather jackets.

From Reuters

She found enormous success performing and recording a variety of styles including folk-rock, country, Latin, light opera and pop.

From Seattle Times

The attention Williams rightly devotes to D’Oyly Carte’s theatrical pursuits, and to Gilbert and Sullivan’s light operas, suggests that the book might have benefited from a different title.

From New York Times

His dark good looks fit nicely with the romance-infused light operas popular in New York theater.

From Washington Times