operetta
UK: ˌɒpəˈretə | US: ˌɑːpəˈretə
n. A short, light-hearted opera, typically with spoken dialogue and a humorous or romantic plot.
operetta = opera<musical drama> + etta<diminutive suffix>
- opera: From Italian "opera" (work, musical drama), derived from Latin "opus" (work).
- etta: An Italian diminutive suffix, indicating a smaller or lighter version of something (e.g., "libretto" = small book).
Etymology Origin:
The word "operetta" emerged in the 18th century as a playful diminutive of "opera," reflecting its shorter, less formal nature. Italian composers like Giovanni Battista Pergolesi pioneered the genre, blending comic elements with musical theater. The suffix "-etta" subtly signals its lighter tone compared to grand opera, mirroring linguistic patterns in Italian where diminutives convey charm or informality (e.g., "casa" → "casetta" = small house).
The local theater will perform a lively operetta this weekend.
"Die Fledermaus" is a famous operetta by Johann Strauss II.
She prefers operettas to tragic operas for their cheerful melodies.
The student ensemble rehearsed a French operetta for the spring concert.
Critics praised the operetta’s witty dialogue and catchy tunes.