vocalism

[ voh-kuh-liz-uhm ]

noun

1. Phonetics.
   1. a vowel, diphthong, triphthong, or vowel quality, as in a syllable.
   2. the system of vowels of a language.
2. the use of the voice, as in speech or song.
3. the act, principles, or art of singing.

vocalism

/ ˈvəʊkəˌlɪzəm /

noun

1. the exercise of the voice, as in singing or speaking
2. singing, esp in respect to technique or skill
3. phonetics
   1. a voiced speech sound, esp a vowel
   2. a system of vowels as used in a language

Word History and Origins

Origin of vocalism¹

First recorded in 1860–65; vocal + -ism

Example Sentences

Mr. Johnson added dense layers of guitar, saxophone and percussion, and a virtuosic solo part for live guitarist, with pitches, melodic motifs and rhythms derived from the recorded vocalism.

From New York Times

At the Met, Bernheim played against type with his slippery vocalism and louche, jaded demeanor.

From New York Times

Only the brutally written “Dirge” brings out rough cracks in his vocalism’s delicate veneer.

From New York Times

“He’s so inventive with his vocalism,” she said.

From New York Times

What emerges is a feast of vocalism from four multidimensional characters — played by women — who go through epic transformation, and two stock-character men who don’t.

From Los Angeles Times