operetta

[ op-uh-ret-uh ]

noun

1. a short opera, usually of a light and amusing character.

operetta

/ ˌɒpəˈrɛtə /

noun

1. a type of comic or light-hearted opera

operetta

1. Comic or lighthearted operas of the kind written by Gilbert and Sullivan . Operettas generally have a substantial amount of spoken (not sung) dialogue.

Derived Forms

• ˌoperˈettist, noun

Other Words From

• oper·ettist noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of operetta¹

1760–70; < Italian, diminutive of opera opera ¹

Word History and Origins

Origin of operetta¹

C18: from Italian: a small opera ¹

Example Sentences

Sharp did lots of school plays, which led to a role in amateur operetta, then professional pantomime.

From The Daily Beast

Inwardly he cursed the creation of theaters, the French operetta, and vowed to get revenge on Pelaez at the first opportunity.

From Project Gutenberg

Die Jger und das Waldmdchen, operetta in one act, music by Duni.

From Project Gutenberg

To quote any of the songs in this operetta would be very unfair to Dickens.

From Project Gutenberg

Has he ever tried to run away since the night of the operetta?

From Project Gutenberg

She grew grave with the thought that the operetta would have to be postponed.

From Project Gutenberg