canto

[ kan-toh ]

noun

, plural can·tos.

1. one of the main or larger divisions of a long poem.

canto

/ ˈkæntəʊ /

noun

1. music another word for cantus
2. a main division of a long poem

Word History and Origins

Origin of canto¹

1580–90; < Italian < Latin cant ( us ) singing, song, equivalent to can ( ere ) to sing + -tus suffix of v. action; cant ¹, chant

Word History and Origins

Origin of canto¹

C16: from Italian: song, from Latin cantus, from canere to sing

Example Sentences

Michael, the default English department heartthrob who satisfies his artistic longings by publishing book-long cantos, isn’t fated for such greatness.

From Los Angeles Times

“Barber” is one of the most famous operas written in the bel canto style.

From Seattle Times

She went on to triumph in the full work at the Royal Opera, then took a three-year break from the role to explore the bel canto repertory.

From Seattle Times

Born in New York in December 1923 to Greek parents, Callas was credited with reviving almost single-handedly the Italian bel canto vocal technique.

From Reuters

The house said Scappucci will be involved in works by Verdi and Puccini along with bel canto.

From Seattle Times