soprano
UK: səˈprɑːnəʊ | US: səˈprɑːnoʊ
n. the highest singing voice in women and boys
n. a singer with such a voice
n. a musical part written for this voice
The word "soprano" comes from Italian, where "sopra" means "above" (from Latin "supra"), and the suffix "-ano" denotes relation. It originally referred to the highest vocal range, literally "the voice above" others (alto, tenor, bass). The term entered English in the 18th century, retaining its musical specificity while expanding to describe both the voice type and its performers.
She trained for years to become a professional soprano.
The soprano's aria brought the audience to tears.
This choir lacks a strong soprano section.
The composer wrote a challenging solo for the soprano.
Her voice matured from mezzo-soprano to full soprano.