sopranino

noun

so·​pra·​ni·​no ˌsō-prə-ˈnē-(ˌ)nō How to pronounce sopranino (audio)
ˌsä-
plural sopraninos
: a musical instrument (such as a recorder or saxophone) higher in pitch than the soprano

Examples of sopranino in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
These examples are automatically compiled from online sources to illustrate current usage. Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.
The award-winning symphonic band of more than 75 area musicians welcomes renowned saxophone soloist Rob Verdi, whose performance will feature his unique collection of instruments, including a sopranino sax, contrabass sax and an original 1880 sax from Adolphe Sax, the instrument’s creator. Linda McIntosh, San Diego Union-Tribune, 23 Feb. 2024 Clarinetist Mark Simpson was especially vivid on sopranino clarinet, playing staccato passages with color and intensity; horn player Stefan Dohr joined Adès in the first movement duet, playing with broad tone and deep expression. Luke Schulze, San Diego Union-Tribune, 4 Aug. 2023

Word History

Etymology

Italian, diminutive of soprano

First Known Use

1905, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of sopranino was in 1905

Dictionary Entries Near sopranino

Cite this Entry

“Sopranino.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/sopranino. Accessed 16 Nov. 2024.

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